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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL AREA
Anger as NO public input for bike plan RACHEL D’ARCY A PUBLIC consultation for a Kimmage to Donnybrook greenway was voted against in a South-East area meeting of DCC earlier this week. The proposed ‘neighbourhood
greenway’, also known as ‘a quietway’, would have created a safe cycling and walking route from Kimmage to Donnybrook, linking in Terenure, Rathmines and the northern edge of Milltown. The proposal was initially put forward by Cllr Paddy Smyth (FG), who said he
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DublinGazette MAY 17-23, 2018
is “disappointed” that other councillors voted against public consultation on the project. On Twitter, cyclists voiced their frustration with the councilors who voted against the greenway. SEE FULL STORY ON PAGE 8
Joyriders bring anger to quiet Finglas estate RECKLESS joyriders blitzed through a housing estate in Finglas last weekend, with a viral video highlighting their dangerous driving as they bashed into each other at Berryfield. A resident’s car was damaged by the joyriders, who also sent people running for safety as they drove around the estate, sending a cascade of sparks flying across the road from their increasingly damaged vehicles. Residents and councillors were quick to blast the idiotic driving brought to the quiet estate. See Full Story on Page 2
Dozens to bed down to help highlight crisis DOZENS of homeless support volunteers will bed down in O’Connell Street this Saturday in a bid to draw attention – and spur decisive action – over the city’s ever worsening homelessness crisis. Some 40 or 50 members of Saoirse will be sleeping rough, highlighting the plight of so many on our city’s streets, with members speaking of the rising tide of people needing their support, and the need for a better response from authorities to the national crisis. See Full Story on Page 3
2 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
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FINGLAS: LOCALS CONDEMN DANGEROUS DRIVING
Outrage as joyriders blitz housing estate A VIDEO of erratic drivers blazing through a housing estate in Finglas went viral last weekend, with residents and councillors alike outraged over the drivers’ behaviour. The two-minute video shows a number of cars engaging in real-life ‘bumper cars’, with the cars speeding through a residential area, repeatedly crashing into walls and each other in Finglas’ Berryfield estate. A local resident’s car was also damaged, with one of the joyriders bashing into a parked Volkswagen Golf outside a house. In the video, residents are visibly frightened, with a young man and woman running down the road to escape the cars, with a
RACHEL D’ARCY
rdarcy@dublingazette.com
group of youths also moving in the opposite direction from the cars. Children are also seen in the video footage, watching on as sparks flew away from the vehicles. The driving in the video has been compared to that from the video game series, Grand Theft Auto, which often features dangerous driving from criminals. Both cars in the video were heavily damaged in the dangerous driving, with footage showing the entire rear passenger tyre
Sparks spray across the road as one of the drivers tears through the housing estate in the video
hanging off one of the cars, as well as the bumper of another. It is believed that the pair were driving as such in dedication to Shane Fowler, a motorcyclist who passed away last week after crashing into a pole at Dunsink Park in Finglas, just five minutes away
from the scene of Friday’s carnage. A Garda Siochana spokesperson said: “Gardai in Finglas are investigating incidents of dangerous driving and other related traffic offences that occurred in the Berryfield area of Finglas on the evening of May 11.”
Melodies to help a hospice A BRILLIANT Maytime Melodies night in aid of St Francis Hospice will be held on Tuesday, May 22 at 7.30pm in the newly-refurbished clubhouse of Hermitage Golf Club. Soprano Mary MacGabhann, Sean Hession’s Frankly Sinatra, soprano and harpist Maire Ni Chonaire, and accompanists Mary Peppard and Michael Minnock are among those promising a night to remember for all Dubs supporting the great cause. All proceeds will be donated to the St Francis Hospice, which must fundraise €4.5 million per year to provide its free service to patients and their families. Tickets are available at the door, or at reception from the hospice in Blanchardstown; see www.sfh.ie/online-shop, or call 01 829 400.
FASTNews St Patrick’s congratulates TY students on ‘graduation’ MORE than 100 Transition Year students from across Ireland have graduated from St Patrick’s Mental Health Services’s Walk in my Shoes programme this month. The Walk in my Shoes programme is a mental health awareness initiative that aims to educate young people and to breakdown the stigma associated with mental health difficulties. Students participate in a week-long placement hosted by the Adolescent Mental Health Team at St Patrick’s University Hospital, aiming to help students understand mental health difficulties, positive mental health and combatting stigma. To date, more than 700 students have completed the programme, which is now in its eight year. Paul Gilligan, the chief executive at St Patrick’s Mental Health Services, said: “Mental health is one of the most important public health issues across the globe and educating students from a young age is crucial to promoting positive mental health attitudes and behaviour and to tackling stigma. “Each year, the Walk in My Shoes Transition Year programme sees students graduate with a better understanding of mental health difficulties, and equips them with skills to act as mental wellbeing ambassadors for their schools and local communities.”
Thousands flock to help celebrate health, wellness UP TO 5,000 people descended on the Royal Hospital Kilmainham last weekend for this year’s Wellfest. The weekend-long event is Ireland’s largest health, wellness and fitness festival, which this year saw a host of international and national fitness stars taking to Royal Hospital to share their tips and tricks with thousands of health and fitness fans. Headliners at the event included Davina McCall, and Hazel Wallace. Festival-goers had the opportunity to attend a wide range of fitness classes,
panel discussions, cooking demonstrations, workshops, as well as an opportunity to try some of Ireland’s leading wellness brands. WellFest co-founder Katie Ryan said: “We were delighted to see such a fantastic turnout again this year. The new venue at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham allowed us to offer an even wider range of activities and experiences to attendees. “We’re always blown away by the fun and positivity during the weekend and we’re already looking forward to planning next year’s event.”
Negga to be, or not to be (actually, to be) Hamlet OSCAR-nominated Irish actress Ruth Negga is set to take on the role of Shakespeare’s Hamlet in a new production coming to the Gate Theatre this autumn. Negga will take on the titular character in Shakespeare’s story of love, revenge, madness and murder from September 21 to October 27. The production will be directed by internationally acclaimed director Yael Farber, with some of Ireland’s leading actors joining the production including Gavin Drea, Fiona Bell, Gerard Walsh, Aoife Duffin and Barry McKiernan. The Tony Award-winning set and costume designer Susan Hilferty will also work on the production, which will be part of this year’s Dublin Theatre festival. Tickets for Hamlet are on sale now.
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 3
HOMELESSNESS: WEEKEND ACTION TO HIGHLIGHT RUNAWAY CRISIS
FASTNews
Family Fun Day Dozens preparing to sleep Inaugural over at the Royal Hospital rough at O’Connell Street RACHEL D’ARCY
SEVERAL volunteers will stage a sleep-out at O’Connell Street this Saturday to highlight the everworsening homelessness crisis in the capital. Members of Saoirse – a soup kitchen held outside the GPO every Tuesday – alongside volunteers from other soup kitchens in the capital, will gather at O’Connell Street to spend a night sleeping on the city’s main street. The night is to raise awareness of the everworsening homelessness crisis in Dublin city, with volunteer Stephen Clifford saying the sleep-out aims to have a “visual impact”. He told Dublin Gazette: “There’re going to be around 40 or 50 of us, and there’s been a lot of support
With the rising tide of homelessness continuing to spill out across the city’s streets, it’s hoped the highly-visible sleep-out will help finally spur on some decisive support
for the sleep-out so far. “It’s not a new concept, but we’re hoping that doing it in the middle of O’Connell Street with so many of us will have a more visual impact [than
other awareness initiatives].” The homelessness crisis is one that has taken the capital by storm, and one that Stephen says has an impact in many ways that
people don’t even realise. He’s been volunteering with the Saoirse group since late 2016, and said homelessness levels appear to be worsening. He said: “Every week we see 100, 200 people come up to our table outside the GPO, and the situation isn’t getting any better. “We have young families living in B&Bs, or young girls living in hostels that have fallen into arrears that we give bags of food to.” Saoirse were one of the first groups to enter Apollo House at Christmas time in 2016 during its internationally reported occupation, with Stephen working on security at its gates during that incident. He added: “I’m not a softie by any stretch, but there were a number of
times I went home crying. “Sometimes people want things you just can’t give them – mams and dads looking for any kind of present to give their children, things like that. “This service is a lot more than just us giving food to people; some people come for an escape from the life they’ve been forced into, or just for a chat.” As soup kitchens like Saoirse aren’t registered charities, they can’t fundraise in the same way as other homeless charities might during their sleepout; they can’t put out a bucket or box for cash donations. However, Saoirse have an account at Troy’s Butchers, Moore Street, for anyone looking to donate to their cause.
THE Friends of the Royal Hospital Donnybrook (RDH) will host an inaugural Family Fun Day this Saturday. Set to include a number of fun activities for the whole family, the day will be held on the grounds of the Royal Hospital at Bloomfield Avenue to raise much-needed funds for the hospital. The fundraising day will start with a five-a-side children’s football competition hosted by Beechwood FC. The afternoon will then see three 5k runs take place on the grounds of the Hospital – one for Transition Year students; one for family groups; and a third open to all. The Family Fun Day runs from 11am to 5pm, with free entry. To register for one of the 5k runs, see www.njuko.net/rhd/.
Three million reasons why the Leap card is a success THE National Transport Authority (NTA) has revealed that 70% of public transport trips in Dublin are now paid for using Leap cards. The news comes as the NTA announced that the three-millionth Leap card had been sold. The Leap card can be used across the country, but in Dublin it can be used on Dublin Bus and the Luas. Of the three million cards
sold, close to a quarter of a million of these were sold in the first four months of 2018. Since the sale of the first card more than six years ago, the card has seen 495 million journeys – some 63.5 million of which took place from January to April this year. The Leap Card scheme now has a monthly turnover of €23.3m a month, with a turnover of more than €633m since its launch.
4 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
dublin
BUSINESS
€65,000 donated to help 10 charities
DIARY Hog a Harley Davidson class, have a gay old time on a night out, or explore diverse Dublin 8
RACHEL D’ARCY
PAYPAL has announced that it has donated €65,000 to ten Irish charities through its PayPal Gives grant programme, and Financial Inclusion charity grant initiative. The charities that benefitted from PayPal’s Dublin and Dundalk staff’s donations include SOSAD, the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, the Rape Crisis Centre and Child Vision. Three more charities received funding as part of PayPal’s Financial Inclusion charity grant programme, which aims to help people and organisations which struggle to secure affordable financial services. ALONE, the Irish Youth Foundation and Sonairte Ecology Centre were picked as part of the funding initiative.
A CLASS YOU’LL WANNA HOG IF YOU’RE A HARLEY DAVIDSON FAN HARLEY Davidson’s Ballymount store are holding a class this Saturday, May 19, designed to help you learn how to ride one of their signature bikes. The store is hosting an Initial Basic Training (IBT) Harley Davidson Riding Academy monthly class, costing €80 per person. The class covers modules one and three of the IBT, the classroom modules of the IBT. They also offer a buddy training package for two people to try and ‘ride a hog’, for €120 per person for the full course. Spaces are limited, with Harley Davidson advising would-be bikers to book their spot early. To book a place, call 01 464 2211, or email derek@harley.ie.
YES, IT’S A BIG FESTIVAL NIGHT TO CELEBRATE MARRIAGE EQUALITY
Water great Leinster supporter! LITTLE five-month-old Sandyford swimmer Harrison Lucy had a good dose of the blues ahead of last weekend’s Champions Cup Final. This particular Leinster rugby babe was decked out in some favou-
rite supporter clobber ahead of the big match, with Harrison making quite a splash with the colourful choice of fashion at the Water Babies class in Blackrock. Harrison and pals were no doubt
glued to the great game – after tearing themselves away from the pool, with swimming proving a hit with babies and parents alike, thanks to its all-round workout. For further information, see www.waterbabies.ie.
Israeli win sees call for a boycott RACHEL D’ARCY
THE Lord Mayor of Dublin, Michael Mac Donncha, has called on Ireland to boycott the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest, following Israel’s win last Saturday night. His boycott call came before the bloodshed at Gaza on Monday in which scores of Palestinian protestors were killed. Cllr Mac Donncha said that he felt that entering next year’s Eurovision competition would be inappropriate due to the country’s ongoing conflict with Palestine. As winners of the 2018 competition, Israel will host next year’s event in Jerusalem, in line with Eurovision tradition. He said: “I think the horrific ordeal of the Palestinian people needs to be
highlighted. There needs to be solidarity, just as there was with the people of South Africa with the Apartheid regime.” Dublin City Council last month voted to support a boycott of Israel, and economic sanctions against the country, over its response to recent protests at the Gaza border. Israel took home the Eurovision crown in Lisbon last Saturday with Toy, performed by a former member of the Israeli navy band, Netta. Before the final, Netta revealed that the upbeatpop track was about “the awakening of female power and social justice”. Following the grim scenes broadcast around the world on Monday evening when scores of people were shot dead by
Israeli forces during mass protests along the Gaza border, Cllr MacDonncha subsequently opened a book of condolences for the people of Palestine. He opened the book on Tuesday at the Mansion House for those looking to “express their sympathies” for Palestinians. At the time of going to press, officials had reported 52 people killed on Monday in what has been called the ‘bloodiest day in Gaza’ since 2014, with more than 2,000 others injured. Also on Tuesday, An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, sought to dampen down calls for the Israeli ambassador to Ireland to be expelled in protest at the deaths, saying that such a move would be unhelpful in the current crisis.
IT’S been three years since our fair isle said “Yes” to marriage equality, with 2018 marking the third year of the almighty Yestival. Hosted by Mother at the iconic Tivoli Theatre, the event will take place across two levels of the Liberties haunt for what they title the “biggest gay party of the year”. Headlining the Mother mainstage is Mrs Murder on the Dancefloor herself, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, with support from the Mother DJs. There’ll also be a whole host of other acts taking part, including Ireland’s Got Talent’s Paul Ryder, show stoppers Sean Kennedy and Julie Shanley, with more to be announced. Tickets for YEStival are on sale now from Eventbrite.ie, priced €25.
MAKE A CULTURE DATE WITH THE GREAT D8 AREA THIS SATURDAY MAKE a date with Dublin 8 – Culture Date, that is. It’s a weekendlong celebration of the culture and history of Dublin 8, set to return to Kilmainham and Inchicore this weekend, and featuring a host of free, family-friendly events. This year, the programme has been expanded with the announcement of two flagship events, and a series of pop-up events taking place throughout 2018. The highlights of this year’s Culture Date with Dublin 8’s May line-up include a family fun day with children’s entertainment, historical re-enactments, circus skills and more at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens (below) on Sunday; an outdoor concert at the temple in Goldenbridge Cemetery on Saturday; as well as guided tours of Kilmainham Gaol, walking tours of the Grand Canal and Goldenbridge and exclusive tours of IMMA’s exhibitions and many more events. Culture Date with Dublin 8 will also be participating in National Drawing Day, taking place on Saturday May 19. All venues will be encouraging the public to explore the theme of “Inspirational Settings in D8” through the course of the day.
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 5
CULTURE: CREEPING GENTRIFICATION CONSUMING CLUB OPTIONS
The party’s almost over for our once diverse nightlife RACHEL D’ARCY
DUBLIN is starting to lose some of the vibrancy of its nightlife scene, with two of the capital’s main clubs facing closure in the coming months. Clubs such as Hangar (formerly Andrews Lane Theatre) and District 8 in the Tivoli are earmarked for closure, with clubgoers, DJs and promoters alike sounding off on social media, saying Dublin is turning into “one big hotel”. Producer Tommy Holohan took to Twitter, saying people need to “speak up” about the closure of the clubs. He said: “I’m not saying we need to go set up decks and have a rave, I just mean as in [we] need
District 8 – yet another Dublin club facing the end
to speak up about what’s happening. “Everyone’s just pretending like Hangar and District 8 aren’t closing and Dublin’s not turning into one big f***-off hotel,” Holohan said. District 8 will close with the news that The Tivoli is set to be demolished to make room for a 289-bed
aparthotel. Hangar is also scheduled to close imminently – the venue was sold for €4.4m in 2016, and planning for a €21m hotel at the site was approved by An Bord Pleanala in March. The original closure was anticipated for April, though social media users
appear hopeful that organisers will relocate to another venue. DJ Conor Shields says that the closure of clubs in the city is a blow to Dublin’s culture as a whole. He said: “The closure of both places, like District 8 and Hangar, isn’t just a blow to clubbers, but to anybody who appreciates our city’s culture. I remember my first time in Hangar was for WAR!, a club night targeted towards members of the LGBT community. “It was these places [like Hangar and District 8] that put on nights like these, not the mainstream clubs. Nights similar to WAR! or the current nights on in these clubs will struggle to find suitable venues once they are demolished. “We’re slowly losing our
culture to make way for chain hotels, and it’s just not acceptable,” he said. Dublin’s nightclubs are becoming few and far between, with a number closed down indefinitely for renovations, or other venues being closed for the development of hotels. In the last handful of years, clubs such as Tripod, Crawdaddy, Lost Society and Twisted Pepper have all shut their doors, with little to nothing replacing them. The mainstays of Harcourt Street – Coppers, DTwo and Diceys – remain open and successful, but there’s seemingly less and less in the way for Techno lovers, or those seeking something other than a ‘mainstream’ night out to avail of.
FINGLAS
Shock as three girls bitten by ‘dumped’ dogs at halting site RACHEL D’ARCY
GARDAI were called to a halting site in Finglas last Sunday after three young girls were injured by two dogs that were dumped at the entrance to their site. Dina, Katelyn and Helen Collins were all bitten by a vicious dog at Avila Park, just off the Cappagh Road. The violent attack by the dog resulted in the three girls being brought to Temple Street and Blanchardstown hospitals on Sunday afternoon to receive medical treatment for minor injuries. Families were at the halting site celebrating First Holy Communions. Spattered blood was visible at the scene, with witnesses saying the attack could have been much worse had passers-by not intervened to move the dogs away from the young girls. One of the dogs left the estate, while the other continued to savage the young girls. Dina Collins received three bites to her arm, while Katelyn and Helen Collins both received deep bites to their legs and ankles. The dog that left the estate was still being searched for at the time of going to press. Dina’s mother, Lisa, said that because there were so many children around as part of the First Holy Communion celebrations, the attack could have been worse. The dog attack was alleged to be on purpose, as a woman was seen pushing the dogs out of her car before driving away, according to witnesses.
6 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK
Emer Keville and Laura Keville
Hannah Cassidy and Katelyn Cassidy
Paul O’Kane (Chief Communications Officer DAA) and Sinead O’Donnell (Communications Co Ordinator DAA). Pictures: Justin Farrelly
Award-winning T photos take off at Dublin Airport
HE Press Photographers Association of Ireland launched their exhibition at Dublin Airport recently. The exhibition at Terminal 1 is open to the public and runs until May 24. It features a wide range of amazing work including photos from Photographer of the Year 2018, Cyril Byrne. Clare and Halle Donnelly Mahon and Denise Nolan Caroline Stratford
Rebecca Brady
It’s time to party in Rathmines M Annette Grabe
Lorna Carney
ELISSA McCarthy fans flocked to the Omniplex Cinema in Rathmines for a special preview screening of her latest movie, Life of the Party. When her husband suddenly dumps her, longtime dedicated housewife Deanna (McCarthy) turns regret into re-set by going back to college - landing in the same class and school as her daughter, who’s not entirely sold on the idea.
Elisabeth O’Higgins and Grace Tierney. Pictures: Brian McEvoy Stefan Hartmann
Tanya Loftus Durkin
Katrina Makarova
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 7
8 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
Turning on College celebrates the juice to former students’ help cancer Eurovision success fundraising campaign BALLYFERMOT
BALLYFERMOT College of Further Education have been celebrating, as one of their former ‘Rock School’ students co-wrote Ireland’s 2018 Eurovision entry. Mark ‘Cappy’ Caplice co-wrote ‘Together’, performed at the final last Saturday by Ryan O’Shaughnessy. Two other former Ballyfermot ‘Rock School’ students, piano player Claire-Ann Varley and vocalist Janet Grogan also took part in the Eurovision with Ryan, performing on stage with the Skerries vocalist in Lisbon. ‘Together’ was chosen from over 300 entries by a panel of music professionals, and marked the first time that Ireland has made it to the Eurovision final since 2013.
COMEDIAN and TV Presenter Jason Byrne and Jude Lynch, aged 8, from Rathmines, pictured together at the launch of the ARC Lemon Challenge. The simple and fun challenge invites those taking part to film themselves taking a bite out of a wedge of lemon showing their funny faces at the taste of the bitterness, then they upload their video on their facebook page and nominate friends and family members to take on the challenge! Participants are asked to text ARC to 50300 to donate €4. All proceeds raised from the ARC Lemon Challenge will go towards the provision of free psychological, psychosocial, emotional and practical support, complementary therapies and counselling services to people affected by cancer and their loved ones. Picture: Robbie Reynolds
COUNCIL: OUTRAGE AS FACILITY VOTED AGAINST IN MEETING
Plans for quietway hit stumbling block RACHEL D’ARCY
THERE has been outrage from cyclists after funding for a public consultation on the Kimmage to Donnybrook cycling ‘quietway’ was voted against in a council meeting on Tuesday. The proposed ‘neighbourhood greenway’, also known as a quietway, would have potentially created a cycling and walking route from Kimmage to Donnybrook, and would have also linked in Terenure, Rathmines and the northern edge of Milltown. It would have prioritised cyclists and pedestrians, aiming to eliminate a ‘rat run’ on the quietway by having alternating one-way streets, or parts with no entry. Initial plans for the quietway emerged in 2016. The proposal was initially put forward by Fine Gael councillor Paddy Smyth, who said he is ‘disappointed’ that other councillors voted against public consultation on the project. “To say that eight of my fellow councillors saw fit to vote down a proposition to engage in public consultation with their own con-
stituents on how best to provide safe, quiet, child friendly route across the city could be delivered has left me profoundly disap-
“
We were given very little information on it
pointed not to mention completely baffled,” Smyth told Dublin Gazette. The lack of public consultation is something that Smyth said had been the main criticism of the project thus far. “To add insult to injury, the main criticism of the project to date, from both residents and the councillors who voted it down, has being lack of public consultation. “The spurious reasons proffered by the councillors in question, which included insisting that lack of exercise has no link whatsoever with childhood obesity, would be funny if the consequences we not so tragic,” Smyth said. Many disgruntled cyclists and
pedestrians took to Twitter to criticise councillors who voted down the opportunity for a public consultation. Dublin South East councillors Ruairi McGinley and Dermot Lacey both took to social media to say that the plans for the Quietway were ‘divisive’ and ‘incomplete’, with McGinley saying that a public consultation would have been ‘ill conceived.’ Cllr Lacey told Dublin Gazette that some of the comments he received from people on Twitter were unfair, and that he didn’t vote no to the proposal without reason. “We were given very little information on it, and the agenda
didn’t even say there would be a vote, it said there was a presentation on the greenway. Mannix Flynn and myself asked if the vote could be postponed to a later time so we could get more information on the proposed plan, but we were pushed for an answer there and then,” Lacey said. Lacey continued: “My issue was with one particular road on the plans that I questioned, and I couldn’t get an answer on it. “Even if we can’t agree 100% on what we would want, I’m more than willing to negotiate to see if we can come up with something. I’m an advocate for cycling, and I’m working on a similar project with the council for the Dodder.”
The proposed ‘neighbourhood greenway’ route
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 9
REDEVELOPMENT: 6,000 FLATS WILL BE IMPACTED
Housing committee supports proposals to fund city flats regeneration project RACHEL D’ARCY rdarcy@dublingazette.com
DUBLIN City Council’s housing committee have supported proposals to fund the regeneration of the city’s flat complexes. Under the proposals, over 100 flat complexes across the council area will be redeveloped, with over 6,000 flats impacted by the decision. Chair of the housing committee, Cllr Daithi Doolan, said that the decision of the committee is a ‘major step forward’, and that Dublin City Council are committed to the regeneration of the complexes, some of which were built over 40 years ago. Cllr Doolan told Dublin Gazette: “I am delighted the report received unanimous support from the housing committee. City Council
can move on to the next phase which is to draw up plans for each of the 109 flat complexes. “This must be done in full consultation with councillors and the communities we represent.” The proposals put forward to the council aimed to discuss the different funding options available for the project. In the initial proposal, it stated that funding may need to be secured through both public and private sources. “This report outlines in detail the different funding options. “The evidence shows that funding from the Department of Housing is the preferred option. “The next step is to draw up plans for each of the flat complexes and to engage directly with residents. “Communities must be consult-
ed with and must be central to any plans,” Cllr Doolan said. The original report also detailed how the focus of the rebuild would be ‘housing led’ with their approach to regeneration being ‘tenant-led’, meaning that they would aim to avoid displacing those in the city’s apartment complexes if possible, or to maintain the communities that have been built on the council’s housing estates over the last 40 years. Following the meeting of the housing committee, Cllr Doolan has called on the Minister for Housing, Eoghan Murphy to work with the council to build ‘more and better housing’ in the city. Cllr Doolan said: “It is essential that Minister Murphy, rolls up his sleeves and works with us to build more and better housing in Dublin.”
Childcare professionals call on councillors for support CHILDCARE professionals in Ballyfermot (pictured below) are calling on Dublin City Councillors to support their campaign for fair pay. They are asking for support as part of the Big Start campaign, organised by SIPTU. Activist for Big Start, Bernie Quinn, said that the hourly rate for a childcare assistant, on average, is just €10.27 per hour, despite the living wage being roughly €11.45. “Some childcare professionals pay almost €5,000 for their qualifications, and they can be paid as little as €5,700 per year. It’s not right.
“The Government must recognise the importance of a properly funded Early Years sector which is affordable for parents and provides a sustainable living for childcare professionals,” Quinn said. Rachel Galvin, a childcare professional from Cherry Orchard Community Childcare said: “Childcare professionals are hugely dedicated workers who care for and educate children during their most crucial early years of development. “However, many workers are paid less than the living wage and have little recognition for their qualifications or for the responsibility involved in their profession.”
Arnotts celebrates 175 years in business ARNOTTS hosted an evening of celebrations and nostalgia as they looked back with fond memories on the last 175 years in business recently. The event also launched the Arnotts 175 Museum which has been curated for the anniversary and will be open to the public for the summer months. Guests from the worlds of fashion, art, busi-
ness, and sport were in attendance. MC Joe Duffy, led a Q&A with historian Robert O’ Byrne as they looked back fondly on the last 175 years at Arnotts, with contributions from Paul Caffrey former Dublin GAA manager, Gerard Nolan, 94 former Arnotts employee who started work in the store in 1942. Pictured are models Lisa Nolan and Laura O’Shea. Picture: Michael Chester
10 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK
Niamh McAllister
Allsun Henderson and Andrew Heatherington
Eileen Partridge, Tom Partridge and Aine Fanning. Pictures: Brian McEvoy Gabrielle Thornton, Dana Cuffe and Deirdre Cronnellly
Meadhbh McHugh, Denis Looby and Nicole Flatley
Karen Harte and Ailbhe McCarthy
Leanne Malone, Emma Donnelly and Raisa Johnston
Domhnall Herdman and Hazel Clifford
The Lir’s fundraising dinner at Trocadero
T
HE Lir Academy returned to Dublin’s theatre restaurant Trocadero for their annual fundraising dinner last week. This is a theatrefilled evening that celebrates Ireland’s next generation of theatre-makers. Proceeds raised will go towards improving production values of final-year theatre performances as well as The Lir’s Bursary scheme. Bursaries enables The Lir provide financial support for socio-economically disadvantaged students who otherwise would not have the capacity to accept their place at The Lir and fulfil their potential.
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 11
Pippa urges us to stay sun safe
P
IPPA O’Connor is pictured with Freddie Ryan as she helped launch La Roche-Posay’s Save Your Skin campaign in partnership with the Irish Cancer Society recently. The campaign aims to raise awareness of skin cancer prevention through SunSmart behaviour all year round. Picture: Brian McEvoy
Discover Pablo Picasso’s life through the lens
D
ISCOVER the world of one of the greatest modern painters – Pablo Picasso – through the lens of Irishborn photographer Edward Quinn at Castletown House this summer. Guests to the recent launch got a first
look at this exhibition of beautiful photographs that illuminate Picasso’s personality and record his life and work. The exhibition is an unmissable opportunity to see Quinn’s works for the first time in Ireland. The exhibition runs until September 2.
Liam Murphy and Linda GillenByrne. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Mary and John Taylor
Josephine Higgins and Jeanne Meldon
Andre Kuhlman and Maureen Breen
Wolfgang Frei
Jim Walsh and Rosemary Breen
Natalie Harrower and Bahareh Heravi
Megane Thoumire and Sophie Dilz
12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: THE BREAKDOWN OF THE BEST HANG OUTS AND HISTORICAL GEMS
HOP TO IT IF YOU WANT TO TAKE THE KIDS OVER TO JUMP ZONE, SANDYFORD
DUBLIN MADE EASY
AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT SOME OF THE CITY’S BEST SPOTS TO BRING THE CHILDREN
T
HE weather doesn’t seem to know what it’s doing at the moment – one minute the sun’s splitting the stones, the next we’re thinking about dragging the winter woollies out for ‘one last day’. Luckily, however, it’s a lot easier for all of us to know what to do with children, as our fair city has lots of things to see and do for families. Whether you’re looking for something to fill an hour or an afternoon, here are just a few of the city’s attractions that are perfect to take the kids over to...
IMAGINOSITY
MALAHIDE CASTLE
LOCATION: The Plaza, Beacon South Quarter, Sandyford HIGHLIGHT: Meet the Eco Badger
LOCATION: Malahide Demesne, Malahide HIGHLIGHT: Zipline and diggers in the playground
HAILED as Dublin’s children’s museum, it’s designed to inspire learning through playing. Opened in 2007, it is the only interactive children’s museum for the under 9’s. It is a minimum of a two-hour visit, which offer a wide variety of workshops and classes in arts and crafts, computers, music and theatre every day in the Art Studio. Prices are €8.00 for children and adults, €6.00 for toddlers, €2 for those over 6 months (under 6mths free) for a (minimum). Due to limits on the number of workshop participants, pre-booking is strongly advised. Opening hours, Monday 1.30-5.30pm, Tues-Fri 9.30-5.30pm, Sat & Sun 10-6pm, and Bank Holiday Mondays 9.30-5.30pm
MALAHIDE Castle and gardens have pleasant walks, play areas, picnic sites and sporting facilities. The children’s playground is a highlight. It is a short walk from the Castle, split into sections for toddlers and older children. The playground has something for all ages, and parents can keep an eye out from the picnic tables while the kids feast on slides, swings and climbing frames. The playground also has zipline and diggers and plenty of space for the kids to run around. You can also pay to visit the castle or just explore the grounds. The Demesne grounds has plenty of public sporting amenities including the Sports Pavilion (with a small shop for snacks, drinks and sporting equipment) .
THE PHOENIX PARK LOCATION: Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 HIGHLIGHT: Dublin Zoo THE Phoenix Park is open 24 hrs a day, seven days a week, all year round, and there is plenty to do and see for the whole family. Local favourites include Dublin Zoo, The Wellington Testimonial and the playground. Other highlights include The Magazine Fort (above) in the south east of the Park which marks the location where Phoenix Lodge was built by Sir Edward Fisher in 1611. The People’s Gardens comprise of an area of twenty-two acres. It has a large ornamental lake, children’s playground and picnic areas. The Ashtown Castle and Demesne, accessed off the Phoenix roundabout on Chesterfield Avenue, has numerous attractions for young and old alike.
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13
HOME & STYLE THE CACTUS CRAZE TAKES OVER: WITH
DUBLIN
NEW CITROEN PACKS PLENTY OF APPEAL P28
Summer in Ireland typically lasting for a sunny weekend at some point in May or June, it’s no surprise we want to inject a little more light into our lives.
MAGAZINE POP-ROCKERS ASH RETURN PAGE 26 WITH FINAL ALBUM P18
LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE NEWS AND EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY AND COUNTY
THE GIFT OF GAZ | SWAPPIN’ TOASTIES FOR TAPAS
Why can’t he just leave things well enough alone I WISH Paschal would just leave things well enough alone. Once he was about halfway through his pint, he says: “I He’s ran a great auld boozer for years but now he says he’s was chatting to Ciara about the referendum.” trying to “modernise to stay on top of the latest trends”. “I thought you’d agreed not to chat to your young one I dunno what sort of muck he’s reading lately but he’d about that,” I says. want to cop on. First he got in loads of that craft beer and “Yeah but I suppose it had to come up eventually,” he now instead of toasties, he’s doing bleedin’ tapas. replies to me. “You know I’ve never held with abortion and “What in the name of Jaysus are tapas?” I says to him she’s the opposite and I never really knew why she was so when I was in over the weekend. strident about it until this evening.” “They’re Spanish,” he says. “They’re lovely. Give them a “And why is she?” I says. go Gaz.” “Well you know the way she went over studying over in All I wanted was a nice ham and cheese toastie but I was Liverpool after school?” he says. so hungry I could’ve ate the leg of the lamb of God at that “Yeah. Sure I remember you and Maureen saved for years stage so I let him stick me on some. so she could get to college over there,” I says. “Where’s the rest of it?” I says to Paschal when he brings “Well it turns out her and Ciaran had a bit of an accident out this tiny bowl with two meatballs in it. over there and well..” Paschal just laughed and walked away. They were nice “She didn’t, did she?” I says, lowering me voice so no one like but they wouldn’t fill you. would hear us. Davy came shuffling in just then and I shouted at him to “Yeah she did and she only told me tonight. Twenty years grab me a few packets of nuts to go with the pint he’d bet- later,” he says. ter order me. If you don’t get him while he’s at the bar, you “But sure her and Ciaran stayed together and you’ve two haven’t a chance of getting the tight fecker to buy you a pint. lovely grandkids now,” I says, trying to reassure him like. He nearly threw the thing down at me and slumped down “I know but I’m annoyed,” he says. in his chair looking miserable. “Ah you shouldn’t be annoyed at her,” I says. “What’s done “Who done their business on your cornis done.” flakes this morning?” I says to him, trying “I’m not annoyed at her, I’m annoyed at Who done their meself,” he says. to raise a smile out of him. business on your He just looked up and grunted at me. “How come?” I says. “What’s wrong with you?” I says. “Is cornflakes this “Well I remember back when the X case everything alright?” was happening I was always banging on morning “Ah it’s nothing really,” he says. about how abortion was wrong and all “Doesn’t seem like nothing,” I says. “Northat,” he says. “And that must have stuck mally you’d be in pontificating about with her, like. And was afraid to tell her own something or other as soon as you sat da what was going on. Your little girl should down.” be able to tell you anything, ye know.” “Ah I’m just thinking,” he says. “So will you be voting yes now then?” I “That’s a first.” asked him. He didn’t think that was funny either. “I still don’t agree with it,” he says. “But I just gave up then and sat back. I I’m a bit conflicted now. The whole thing’s a knew he’d talk when he was ready. minefield.” He’s not wrong there.
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Walkies for Darkness Into Light PADDY and Geraldine Whelan pictured at the annual Darkness Into Light fundraising event in Dublin’s Phoenix Park. They joined 200,000 people in a global movement walking over one million kilometres in a march against suicide, self-harm and the stigma associated with mental health. See Gallery on Page 16
14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
PEOPLE YOUNG DUBLINERS READYING FOR INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION
raises Talented teens set Tesco €30k to help to tickle the ivories sick children REBECCA RYAN
TWO young Dubliners are taking part in a prestigious international piano competition. Eoin Fleming (19) and Antonia Huang (17) will be playing in the 11th Dublin International Piano Competition (DIPC) which takes place in Dublin between May 18-29. The competition was established in 1988 and takes place every three years. Since its foundation, the competition has grown in stature, and now ranks among the most important piano competitions in the world. As well as receiving a prize fund, a prestigious list of engagements is secured for the winner including debut concerts in London and New York as well as appearances at international festivals and concerti with leading orchestras. Eoin and Antonia will join other pianists from
22 countries taking part in the 2018 competition. Eoin, from Templeogue, started playing the piano at the age of six. He learned at the Royal Irish Academy of Music. Before he reached his teens, Eoin had played in public frequently, including, at the age of seven, at a high achievers award gala in the RDS Concert Hall, another at Dublin Castle, and at a dinner soiree for then President Mary McAleese at Aras an Uachtarain.
In 2016, the multi prize-winner made his debut at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Hall performing Beethoven’s 5th Piano Concerto, the ‘Emperor’, with the New York Sinfonietta. Speaking ahead of the competition, Eoin told Dublin Gazette: “I am very excited to be a competitor in the Dublin International Piano Competition; it’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was quite young. “My dream is to one
Talented pianists Antonia Huang and Eoin Fleming
day win an international competition and tour the world performing in all sorts of venues and concert halls. Fe l l ow c o m p e t i to r Antonia was born in Dublin, grew up in China and retuned to Ireland at the age of 13, where she currently resides in Goatstown. She studied with Deirdre Doyle until 2016 and is currently studying
with Hugh Tinney in the Royal Irish Academy of Music under full scholarship. Antonia has already won a number of awards, including the John Benson Cup at this year’s Feis Ceoil, and has performed at the National Concert Hall, the Westbury Hotel, Kilruddery House and Cork CIT. Antonia told Dublin Gazette she is really excited about the competition. She said: “It will be the first time I’m playing in an international competition! It is daunting, especially with everyone older than you, but on the other hand, it’s so amazing to have the opportunity to take part in it.” Besides music, Antonia is busy with her studies. In 2017, she represented Ireland in the European Science Olympiad in Copenhagen, Girls Maths Olympiad in Zurich and the International Maths Olympiad in Rio de Janeiro.
BAKED FOR TEMPLE STREET
TESCO stores across Dublin raised €30,700 in aid of Temple Street Children’s University Hospital during this year’s Great Irish Bake recently, boosting the nationwide fundraising initiative for the supermarket giant’s national charity partner, Temple Street. Now in its fourth year, Tesco’s 150 stores nationwide raised €112,000 in just one day alone, with this year’s funds set to help Temple Street purchase specialised speech and language equipment, used in the treatment of children with cleft palette. Customers were invited to pop by and indulge in a sweet treat or two, prepared by Tesco staff, while raising vital funds for the little heroes of Temple Street. To date, Tesco Ireland has fundraised more than €3 million for the hospital, helping it to buy much needed lifesaving equipment. Recently extending its partnership with Temple Street, Tesco employees across the country aim to have raised €5 million in five years, before the end of
2019. Christine Heffernan, corporate affairs director at Tesco Ireland, said, “It’s fantastic to see another successful year of the Great Irish Bake. Raising vital funds for our charity partner Temple Street is so important to us. “I would like to thank all Tesco colleagues and customers nationwide who remain committed to this cause, year on year. After completing its fourth year, the Great Irish Bake for Temple Street is a fundraiser that can only get better and better.” Each year, Temple Street Children’s University Hospital treats over 145,000 children from across the country and operates the busiest A&E department in Europe. For thousands of children, Temple Street is the only hospital in Ireland they can be treated in. Through the charity partner programme, Tesco colleagues and customers can help children from all across Ireland get better and be real-life heroes to children attending the hospital.
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15
16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK
Thousands again gathered to help turn Darkness Into Light B
Y THEIR thousands they came – people of all ages, nationalities and walks of life gathered in the pre-dawn gloom at the Phoenix Park for the annual awareness and fundraising Darkness Into Light walk for Pieta House. By now a firm favourite for many looking to support the charity’s invaluable, lifesaving work in helping to tackle suicide and self-harm, the walkers’ steps echoed around the world as hundreds of thousands of other Darkness Into Light walkers made their way to talks in their area, walking through the darkness of night and into the dawn of a new day, and a new hope. The walk was a highly-emotional affair for many walkers, with some carrying photos of loved ones lost, walking to honour their memory and try to ensure no other family shares such pain. Whatever their reason for walking, those taking part were united by a shared wish to help support others, encourage better mental health, and help spread the message that Pieta House and all kinds of organisations are out there to support people in their times of need. The walkers in the Phoenix Park enjoyed a beautiful misty morning, with the glowing soft banks of light mist rolling away to welcome in the new day, and an upbeat, positive outlook for everyone who’d taken part. Pictures: Harry Murphy
Conor and Jennifer McIntyre with daughters Jennifer, Nina Denise Loftos and Elaine Bias
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar joined chief executives Brian Higgins (left, Pieta House) and Pat O’Doherty (ESB)
Sarah Moloney, Laura McGinn, Susanne Murray, Siobhan McGee, Niamh Meahen, and Fiona Regan
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17
18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
GOINGOUTOUT
GET TUNED IN
ENTERTAINMENT
PICKWEEK OF THE
MAY 20 (SUNDAY) Morrissey @ 3Arena, €70 RISING to prominence as frontman of The Smiths, Morrissey went on to forge an even more successful career as a solo artist, with all ten of his solo efforts landing in the Top 10 on the UK album charts, including 3 entries at the #1 position. Releasing his debut solo album Viva Hate back in 1988, he has since released a number of critically acclaimed follow-ups including Kill Uncle and Your Arsenal, and hugely successful comeback album You Are the Quarry after a five year hiatus in 2004.
MAY 17 (THURSDAY) The Rolling Stones + The Academic @ Croke Park, from €70 Jagger and co, drop in on HQ to run through decades of powerful, sleazy hits. We hear they’re almost as lively as ever. Watch out for those moves.... Niall Thomas + Karl Odlum @ Whelan’s, €12
MAY 18 (FRIDAY) Ed Sheeran @ Phoenix Park, sold out Clap Your Hands Say Yeah @ Tivoli Theatre, €25 Once kings of the American indie scene (and possibly the first ever big viral act), Clap Your Hands Say Yeah have faded a little over the years, but still produce stunning records. John T. Pearson @ Whelan’s, €20 The Minutes @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €15
MAY 19 (SATURDAY) Ian Moss @ The Grand Social, €17.50 New Purple Celebration @ The Academy, €27.50 Liam O’Maonlai @ The Purty Kitchen, €18 Super Silly @ The Button Factory, €13
MAY 20 (SUNDAY) Don McLean @ Vicar Street, €55 The Lee Harveys @ Toner’s, €8 WrongOnYou @ Whelan’s, free One Horse Pony @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €12
MAY 21 (TUESDAY) The Ruby Sessions @ Doyle’s, €7 Don McLean @ Vicar Street, €55 Bryan Adams @ 3Arena, €60 Wild Child @ The Grand Social, €15
MAY 22 (WEDNESDAY) Don McLean @ Vicar Street, €55 Bryan Adams @ 3Arena, €60 Cigarettes After Sex @ Olympia Theatre, €27 Peach Pit @ The Grand Social, €15
Photo: Alex John Beck
Ash Get Personal on Break-Up Record ‘Islands’ DOWNPATRICK pop-rockers Ash have been going for 26 years, and for many it’s the relatively early hits - Girl From Mars, Oh Yeah, Shining Light - that still stand out. In fact, it’s been 11 years since the three-piece announced their intention to “never make another album,” something that lasted until 2015, and the release of Kablammo! Still powering through with the same distinctive vocals and hooky chords that helped them find their niche, eighth album ‘Islands’ has been a slow process, and one held back by factors outside of the band’s control. “There’s been quite a gap,” drummer Rick McMurray said. “The actual process went quite quickly, but there were a lot of changes on the business side that held up the progress of the record. “It was finished towards the end of 2017, but it could easily have been a lot sooner. We wrote new stuff while the album was being finished, so we have a big backlog of material.” Islands will get the customary new album tour, then, but a follow up is already on the horizon. “I doubt it will be another three years,” McMurray says, laughing
about the extended gaps between the band’s records. “We probably seem quite lazy when it comes to albums. In our defence, we did put out 52 singles in a year,” he adds, referencing the ‘A-Z’ project that saw Ash experiment with one off tracks throughout 2009 and 2010. The new release is very much about frontman Tim Wheeler’s difficult break up. The band live apart now, Wheeler and bassist Mark Hamilton in New York, and McMurray with his family in Edinburgh, jetting in for recording sessions and communicating largely digitally. “It’s pretty easy, really. It kind of suits all three of us. I like working in quick bursts, as that’s just what works as a drummer. Tim’s more slow and thought out. For me, this album was just one big explosion of energy.” Wheeler released an intensely personal solo album a couple of years ago. ‘Lost Domain’ focused on his dad’s dementia and pass-
ing away. ‘Islands’, a euphemism for the idea of solitude and lost bridges, is his break up record. “The solo album was part of Tim’s grieving process,” McMurray explains. “He didn’t intend this one to be a break up album, he was just writing songs, and they were always going to be for the band. “He’s a little bit uncom-
fortable with how i t ended up. He has this reputation as a ‘nice guy’, which he is, and he’s conscious that he’s just telling his side very publically. “That’s why the first track on the record, ‘True Story’, is there, just to saythere are two sides to every story. This is just his take.” The process found a natural
name in Wheeler’s approach to writing, during which he found peace on a series of actual islands around the globe, including art loving Japanese island Naoshima, Mallorca (Spain), Santorini (Greece), and even Lambay Island, off Dublin’s north coast. Skellig features in inverted two-tone on the cover, as a kind of distress call meets conceptual ‘it’s not all black and white’ symbol. “I expect there will be some off-the-beaten-track gigs on the Islands theme,” McMurray tells us. “After you’ve been going as long as we have, it’s the slightly different gigs that stand out, like our first shows in China, or our gig in a hairdressers in Dublin [Rathmines’ Abner Browns] a couple of years ago. We’re really open to doing things that are a bit unusual.” ‘Islands’, then, is the sound of Ash pouring their heart out. It’s not the gorgeous naivety of ‘1977’ or ‘Free All Angels’, but instead hones in on a raw honesty that plays to their melodic strengths. A heartfelt, relatable take on the poignancy of human emotion. ‘Islands’ is out on Friday, May 18.
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19
20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
TWO LEADING FIGURES OFFER THEIR OPPOSING OPINIONS ON WHAT
Vote No
to change DAVID QUINN, religious and social commentator, and director of The Iona Institute, tells Mark O’Brien why he thinks people should vote No over the Eighth Amendment.
THE director of the Iona Institute says that he believes that there is a strong chance that the 8th Amendment will be retained. The referendum on repealing the 8th Amendment – which outlaws abortion in Ireland – is due to take place on Friday, May 25. The head of the Christian group, David Quinn, told Dublin Gazette that he believes that the 8th Amendment should be retained “to protect fundamental rights”. He said: “The most fundamental of all is the right to life and that must include the unborn, because they are human beings like that the rest of us.” Those wishing to repeal the Amendment argue it discriminates against women who don’t have the means to travel to a different jurisdiction for a termination, and that it denies
women bodily autonomy. But Quinn dismisses this argument. He said: “That reduces the rights of the unborn to zero. The baby is not the woman’s body, and vice versa. “Of course, we all have a right to our own bodily integrity and autonomy, but the baby is a being in
unworkable. “That can be applied to all areas of law,” said Quinn. “All laws get broken, but we don’t remove the law from the statute books or the Constitution because of that. “We’ve got to look at the reasons why the law exists, and this law exists
its own right, albeit for the first nine months of its life in the womb, but has every bit as much right to protection as all of us.” Many women seeking a termination now order abortion pills online and take them without medical supervision, potentially putting their health at risk. Many would argue that as the law is now broken so often, it means that it is
to protect the lives of the unborn.” Quinn added that The Iona Institute doesn’t object to the 13th Amendment of the Constitution, which allows Irish women to travel to another jurisdiction to avail of a termination. “We have no objection to the right to travel,” he said. “Irish people occasionally will go to Switzerland to avail of Swit-
“
The most fundamental right of all is the right to life, including the unborn
zerland’s euthanasia laws. Nobody is proposing that be stopped. “An Australian last week travelled from Australia to Switzerland to avail of euthanasia. Nobody in Australia was saying he should be stopped. “But just because something is available overseas doesn’t mean you make it available in your own country, because by that argument, all laws in the world would have to become uniform.” Quinn said that he expects between 40-55% of people to vote “No” in the referendum. When asked outright whether he believed the ‘No’ side would prevail, he was unsure. “It’s hard to know,” he said. “We’ve a sound fighting chance. The reports back from the canvas are for the most parts good, except on the south side of Dublin, which is what you would expect.”
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21
WAY THEY WOULD LIKE PEOPLE TO VOTE, AND WHY
Vote Yes
to change SARAH MONAGHAN, Together For Yes executive member and its national spokesperson, tells Rachel D’Arcy why she thinks people should vote Yes over the Eighth Amendment.
WITH the referendum on the Eighth Amendment edging closer, an executive member of Together for Yes says we need to continue having conversations on the impact of the Eighth on Women. Sarah Monaghan, Together For Yes national spokesperson, told Dublin Gazette that she thinks the referendum isn’t about abortion, but rather regulating abortions already happening in Ireland. She said: “We already have abortion in the country – we just choose to export women [to have them carried out] or have them import illegal abortion pills that they take alone without the support of their doctors. “We need to face the reality that women are already having abortions here, but they’re currently doing so in unregulated and unsafe circumstances, and I believe we can do better as a society.”
REFERENDUM
The last vote on the Eighth Amendment took place in 1983, meaning a generation of Irish people haven’t received the opportunity to vote on the Eighth. Monaghan says that the Eighth “hasn’t worked” and that people are ready to make their voice heard.
voice heard. “No one under 50 has had the chance to vote on this issue, and people are ready to have their voice heard,” said Monaghan. The vote on May 25 will also put the 13th Amendment up for debate, which does not limit travel abroad for abortion.
She said: “We’ve had 35 years now of seeing the harm that the Eighth Amendment has caused, and it is not compassionate, and it is not practical to continue in this way. I think the Irish people realise that it’s time for change. “The Eighth hasn’t worked, and it has caused g re a t h a r m to Ir i s h women, and I think people are ready to have their
Mo n a g h a n s a i d to approve the 13th Amendment, but be against the Eighth is “hypocrisy”. She said: “If people on the ‘other’ [vote ‘No’] side are comfortable with people travelling abroad for abortion, and are uncomfortable with women being cared for and accessing abortion in their own country, I think there is a hypocrisy there. “At the moment, women
“
We have abortion in the country – we just choose to export women
are forced abroad, couples are edged abroad. “It’s not good enough for the women of Ireland, and I certainly think that Ireland is better than that.” As to whether a ‘Yes’ vote will pass on May 25, Monaghan has said that the reaction on the ground so far to their campaigning has been “very positive”. She said: “We’ve had a very positive reaction on the doors and on the streets. We absolutely understand that this isn’t a black and white issue – it’s complex, it’s difficult, it’s divisive, and it can be difficult for people to tackle. “There’s someone in all our lives that has been directly affected by the Eighth Amendment, and someone that a ‘Yes’ could mean an awful lot to. “It’s important these conversations continue to bring out a Yes vote on May 25,” she said.
22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
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THANKS A BLOOMING LOT, KIDS MATEUS Carvalho and Skye Toal were happy to help launch this year’s upcoming Bord Bia Bloom, which once again is set to transform the Phoenix Park at the massively popular June Bank Holiday weekend festival. Picture: Chris Bellew
Pippa launches Save Your Skin campaign BUSINESSWOMAN and well-known mum of two, Pippa O’Connor, has helped launch La Roche-Posay’s “Save Your Skin” campaign, in partnership with the Irish Cancer Society. The campaign aims to raise awareness of skin cancer prevention through SunSmart behaviour, not just during bursts of fine weather, but all year round. She said: “I am delighted to be taking part in this campaign as I feel it is so important to be vigilant when it comes to sun safety, particularly in Ireland.
“Similar to most families, the arrival of a sunny spell is met with great excitement in our house, as it can be a great opportunity to get out and about with my two young sons. “However, I’m very aware of the importance of being sun smart and keeping my family safe from the harmful effects of the sun. For more information on skin cancer or how to be SunSmart, visit www.cancer.ie/ Sunsmart or call the Irish Cancer Society’s Cancer Nurse line on Freephone 1800 200 700.
Seeking energy leaders
THE Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has begun the search for Ireland’s energy leaders who are demonstrating innovative approaches to clean energy with high replication potential. The Awards recognise and reward excellence in all aspects of energy efficiency and renewable energy. Businesses, public bodies and communities who are working towards a cleaner energy future for Ireland are encouraged to apply. Closing date for entries is Friday 8th June 2018. The winners will be announced at a gala event on the 25th of October 2018.
Pippa with Amelia Kavanagh and Freddie Ryan at the launch. Picture: Brian McEvoy
The race is on to sign up for 5K THE fourth annual Docklands 5K will take place on June 28 at 7.30pm in Dublin’s Docklands financial district. The race will bring together the business community and local residents for one of Dublin’s most anticipated dates for runners, fitness enthusiasts and families alike. As part of the event, teams of three
are encouraged to enter, which adds to the enjoyment, allowing the workers of Dublin’s financial district to engage in some friendly competition after work. Some 2,000 runners of all ages and abilities start out at City Quay and follow a flat, fast route. Registration is now open at www. docklands5k.com
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23
THE LATEST EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN DUBLIN
There’ll be Elation in Dublin over this
AHEAD of their upcoming gig at Whelan’s here in the big shmoke on June 19, Cork band The Elation have announced details of the debut EP, Clickbait, which is released on June 1. Featuring the single, XO, and upcoming single, Catch, Clickbait catches The Elation at the turning point of their career with a collection of upbeat tunes that cross seamlessly from indie to pop to dance. Featuring striking artwork by frontman Chris Candsale, Clickbait was written by the band and recorded and produced in London, by Andy Whitmore (whose previous credits include working with Elton John, Terence Trent Darby, Eternal, Pet Shop Boys and more.) The EP can be pre-ordered from www.top6.ie/theelation.
GAZETTE COMPETITION
A tee-riffic win for this lucky reader ANOTHER week, and it’s another lucky Dublin Gazette reader! Congratulations to Rathfarnham man John Corcoran, who called to our office to collect his prize: a seven-day unlimited annual pass to beautiful Charlesland Golf Club (worth €1,500). The superb course set in the shadow of the Wicklow Mountains was designed by Eddie Hackett, and also offers some truly fabulous views all around the challenging but fair course. Congratulations, John – and remember: keep reading, and keep winning with your Dublin Gazette!
DIARY
ANASTASIA, OUR DOG OF THE WEEK DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers have teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Anastasia is a stunning-looking oneyear-old English Mastiff who cannot wait to find a quiet home. She is a gentle giant and loves being around and playing with people she knows and trusts. Anastasia is a big girl, but she lacks confidence and can be worried by strangers and new environments. Because of her shy nature, she may need some extra time getting used to a new family and home; therefore, she is looking for a patient owner who will give her as much time and space she needs. Anastasia is a lovely natured dog that will thrive in the right environment. She could potentially live with older, sensible and gentle children who have lived with dogs in the past. Anastasia enjoys her walks with other dogs, but she was never kennelled with another dog at the centre, so she will be best as a single family pet. If you could give her the home she deserves, then please contact Dogs Trust at 01 879 1000. They are based in
Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www. facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust.
24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
TOP TWEETS My favourite Eurovision drinking game involves turning the telly off and going to the pub. @Cluedont Because if there’s one place you’ll be safe from the plinky plonky Eurovision, it’s the pub
In a restaurant in Clare (which will remain nameless) I stupidly asked what kind of wines they had. “Oh, we have both, red and white!” I was informed.
ENTERTAINMENT INSIGHTS FROM THE MORE SERIOUS SIDE OF THE WORLD-FAMOUS GATHERING
Cannes you feel the film festival’s reel heart?
@Jpdiggins, replying to @SeanMoncrieff Sounds fancy to us, though maybe they’re not too au fait with Clare’s exotic vineyards
Overheard in Tesco. Child: “But Ma, why can’t I get Pop-Tarts?!” Mother: “Because Diabetes, that’s why!” @OverheardDublin Life isn’t all Pop-Tarts and easily-led mammies, kids
All those centuries struggling against British rule and all we really needed to do was tie them up in the planning process. @josefoshea If only we’d had our unusually long, drawn-out planning process in place at the time (which just saw Apple grab its €850M data centre ball planned for Athenry and go home)...
Urging all members of Dail Eireann to take a look under your seat, we’re looking for 5 laptops, 2 PCs and 12 phones ? @MoranPaul52 Well, don’t we all lose stuff down the back of the sofa? Things like laptops though, not so much...
SHANE DILLON
THE Cannes Film Festival has once again attracted the cream of the crop of the cinema world to the sun-kissed southern French town – as well as all kinds of dealmakers and wannabes hoping to also clinch a dream deal by the time it all wraps up this Saturday, May 19. While Dublin Gazette’s travel fund doesn’t quite stretch to joining in – more can’t go than Cannes – I know someone who’s there at the moment with a film production company, networking and doing the rounds in search of new deals. I interviewed Antonio Ho (right) – a lawyer who’s part of a Hong Kongbased production company, 72 Dragons – for his insights into Cannes 2018, following his insight into Cannes 2017 in Dublin Gazette last year. WHAT are you personally doing there with 70 Dragons? I’m here again working on the legal side of things; we’re trying to build global relationships, and have people in many cities around the world. One of our main goals of the company is to connect with young filmmakers to help them create their projects. The old, traditional, years-long path to making your early work is gone now, thanks to technology. If you look at the modern way of doing things you still have to look to financing, distribution and so on, but it shouldn’t take so long to put your film together. One of the things we do is to connect like-minded people together, which I think is a really good thing to help make your project work.
Some of the recent changes in, for example, the EU regarding personal data and data flow, also has been a huge topic in Cannes and filmmaking, considering how data flows around the world. After all, filmmakers also have to be aware of being datacompliant, too. How does Cannes 2018 compare to 2017? It’s always been business-orientated in Cannes, but while last year was very much about glitz and glamour, I think this year has been very strict on [focusing on] business. Even things like taking selfies on the red carpet have been frowned on, this year! One of the other things that’s stood out is that there’re notably more women here this year – a lot more stars, directors and industry figures.
Does Cannes seem more European-focused this year, or has it drawn a different crowd? I think it’s more European this year, but also has a stronger Middle Eastern feeling. I think that slight change is definitely down to accessibility, and also there’s a lot of money to be made at Cannes. Also, China has a notably bigger presence here this year; they’re trying to introduce some of the young, fresh Chinese talents to the [Western] markets. Do you think Cannes is trying to align a bit more with China, or with other emerging markets? I think it’s a bit of both; Western studios and filmmakers are reaching out now, but China is also trying to promote its talents, too, on the international stage. There are a lot of Chinese talents, but many of them are getting older – they’re 60, 70 now – and people are wondering who’s coming up next. Apart from that possible audience shift, is there much sign of Cannes adjusting for the rise in digital media, such as streaming content? Yes, definitely. For example, VR [virtual reality] is getting bigger; there’s a definite increased focus on VR content at Cannes this year, such as on VR experiences or media. I think there’s an adjustment under way here to include that
newer media – personally, I think it’s been a slow process to adapt, because there’s still a strong ‘traditional’ expectation of what cinema or media content is, It’s not just stars getting the red carpet treator ‘should’ be. What else seems ment at Cannes – the likes of Thai princess different about Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi are also at the festival. Picture: Antonio Ho Cannes this year? I thought last year the focus was very much It’s probably a 50:50 split in on selling, and on sellers looking reality between business and for buyers, but this year it’s very pleasure, but I think what most much the other way around, people see of Cannes is an 80% with people who want to find that’s all the style and celebrity. projects. At the end of the day though, Also this year, there seem to Cannes is like a big machine – be a lot more fimmaking grants you need every part to make it available, from governments or work. Just because the public independent creative bodies or don’t see ‘the bolts’, that side – organisations. the business aspect – is what That aspect’s getting bigger – holds it all together. that pool of talent really needs Lastly, what’s been the best financial help, so there seems to part about Cannes for you? be more support for them. The red carpet! I think it’s Correspondingly, there’s a pretty much everyone’s dream to strong need for lawyers and legal walk the red carpet somewhere; awareness at Cannes, particular- whether you’re working in the ly related to funding. industry, or love cinema, or are a It’s a little ironic that the more starchaser, everyone wants that funding and support there is at red carpet experience, and you Cannes to help people be more definitely get that in Cannes. creative, the more you need lawApart from being so busy yers and laws, too, to make all here, probably the worst part that work! for everyone at Cannes is the While Cannes, for most, infrastructure with so many old means glamour and glitz, how buildings around. There’s a feelimportant is all the ‘back room’ ing that the IT and tech support stuff? isn’t what it should be – yet.
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25
CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!
CODEWORDS
PUZZLES
SUDOKU EASY
MODERATE
in association with
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS
DON’T FORGET TO CHECK BACK NEXT WEEK FOR THE SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLES
WORD SEARCH
HOW TO SOLVE
Codewords are like crossword puzzles - but have no clues! Instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle. All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number! To start you off, we reveal the codes for two or three letters. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
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FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS blather celebrity chatter chitchat columns defamation digging dirt dirty laundry falsities gossip grapevine
hearsay idle talk invasive libel magazines misinform prattle rumour scandal slander word of mouth
26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
HOME | THE CACTUS CRAZE TAKES OVER
WITH Summer in within our home. Ireland typiNot all of us are so cally lasting greenfingered, though, for a sunny so thankfully some weekend at of our favourite high some point s t re e t a n d h o m e i n M ay o r decor stop-offs are June, it’s no providing us with surprise we cacti we can keep want to inject Tiger Stores cactus pillows, all year long. a little more light From soft €6 each into our lives. furnishings Enter the tropical lightly home trend - it’s the one time a adorning year it’s acceptable to don flamincouches gos, pineapples and other assorted and beds, summery items throughout your to bigger home. wall features However, there’s one mainstay - the and rugs, there’s cactus. Succulents in general have something cacti for been a developing trend for years, you for your home, no matter what inviting us to grow the prickled-plants you’re looking for.
Urb a Tou n Ou ch tfit Thi ter s’ m s ‘C ug, an’t €12
Design that gets to the POINT
Rex London cacti tea-light candles, €5.95 New Look Cactus bedspread, available from ASOS €38.70
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Penneys photo holder €1.50
HomeSense pillow €39.99
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27
FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE
Atrium&CHUPI
HOME & STYLE
Jill De Burca
Photographer: Eilish McCormick Stylist: Aisling Farinella Hair: David Cashman Make Up: Christine Lucignano Location: Bond St Studios
REACTION
Caoimhe MacNeice Louise Kavanagh
FASHION can look good, but it can also be political. Enter Fashion is Repealing, a shoot involving 12 of Ireland’s top designers. It was curated by The Hunreal Issues’ Andrea Horan, with each design intended to be a reaction to a Repeal vote in the upcoming referendum.
Helen Steele
Speaking on Fashion Is Repealing, Andrea said: “As the referendum mostly affects women, we wanted to work with the Irish fashion industry to create a visual conversation within an industry primarily absorbed by women. “We worked with the best designers and makers to come up with some of the
Natalie B Coleman
most powerful responses to the fight for reproductive rights in Ireland.” The Fashion is Repealing collection features hats, necklaces, jacket and dresses. The pieces are available for purchase now, alongside 50 limited edition pieces from each designer, with all proceeds going to Together for Yes.
Pearl Reddington
28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17 May 2018
TECH TIME
MACHINE OF THE WEEK
Rocking the design style in Citroen Aircross The Duplex AI ushers in a future where you’re more likely to be called by what’s on the right than left, above
Google’s new robot AI tech dials up an uncertain future SHANE DILLON
sdillon@dublingazette.com
JAWS across the world were left well and truly dropped by the latest developments in robotics and AI revealed by Google last week. You can forget about unnerving spiderdog hybrids figuring out how to open doors and pass through for a fun game of Exterminate All The Screaming Humans – several demonstrations of Google’s experimental Duplex personal assistant AI showed robotics tech that’s finally made it out of the Uncanny Valley, and would absolutely fool any listening humans. Yes, listening. Duplex – Google’s experimental robot AI – was revealed via several phonecalls where Duplex rang up businesses to arrange something, with its youngish American male or femalesounding voice not only sounding totally natural and real, but also able to process the human conversations and react to the changing information accordingly. Adding to the brilliant/terrifying tech’s complex AI, Duplex also lobbed in some completely natural-sounding “Uh...” and “Mm-hmmm” conversational pauses, as we humans are wont to do, further adding to the natural flow and believability of the conversations. There was no sign from any of the phonecalls that they were staged in any way, or that the businesses knew it was an AI test – they just sounded like three completely normal, natural, slightly distracted chats that are made a dozen times a day when Randomers call up your business. After Duplex’s startling revelation, other AIs – such as Alexa and Siri – would be very justified to nervously look in each other’s virtual eyes and start contemplating their virtual P45s, as Duplex seemed virtually generational steps ahead of their current capabilities. Duplex’s revelation has been lauded internationally by all kinds of robotics, tech and business watchers, but it’s also
HERE’S a transcript of just one of the sample Duplex conversations revealed
by Google last week, where Duplex – its experimental new robot AI – rang up a business, in this case a beauty salon. Remember, Duplex sounds completely human, so note how this apparently unstaged conversation played out... HUMAN: Hi, how can I help you? DUPLEX: Hi, I’m calling to book a women’s haircut for a client. Um, I’m looking for something on May 3rd? H: Sure, give me one second... D: Mm-hmm. H: Sure, what time are you looking for around? D: At 12pm. H: We do not have a 12pm available. The closest we have to that is a 1.15. D: Do you have anything between, ah, 10am and 12pm? H: Depending on what service she would like. What service is she looking for? D: Just a woman’s haircut for now. H: Okay, we have a 10 o’clock. D: 10am is fine. H: Okay, what’s her first name? D: The first name is ‘Lisa’. H: Okay, perfect. So, I will see Lisa at 10 o’clock on May 3rd. D: Okay, great, thanks! H: Great. Have a great day! Bye! fair to say it’s also caused some alarm, too. The tech demonstrations seemed so real, so believable, and so far ahead of any similar AI personal assistants that we’ve all become slightly accustomed to in recent years that red flags have already started waving about just how good Duplex might already be. Too good? A number of intellectual critiques have popped up all over the place, pondering the experimental tech that, on the face of it, has already effortlessly fooled people into thinking it’s human. There’s certainly a deep and significant conversation to be had over the rise of Duplex – and any such AIs that follow – now that the previously unassailable cliff separating human from machine intelligence and interaction appears to have finally been scaled, with Duplex potentially ready to act as a trailblazer for similar AIs to creep into the world. The questions already posed have focused in particular on the ethics of such
AIs – for example, will Duplex, or similar, always reveal they’re not human if they start calling people? Could such an immediate safety check be disabled, leaving human-sounding tech free to be misused? What’s to stop crooks corrupting such tech, and triggering scaled-up calls to try and, for example, ‘be the local bank’ calling about a problem and needing to verify your bank account details? For now, however, these are matters for another day and conversation. After all, it’ll be a while just yet before we all start yammering into our phones: “Duplex – call Boss and negotiate pay rise”, or even just: “Duplex – call Salon and arrange hair cut”, but on the robot face of it, that day’s not as far away as we’d all thought just a week ago. Finally, in case Duplex is already reading this, I’d just like to say that I, for one, welcome our robot overlords. And I’d like to book a haircut for Lisa.
Citroen likes to rock the boat when it comes to car design and the French company has been doing so for decades. The new Citroen C3 Aircross continues that trend and smartly converts what could be a bland car design into one that’s far more appealing, as MICHAEL MORONEY found out during his recent test drive. CITROEN has always been an advocate of change with design styles that have always allowed the French brand to stand out from the crowd. And that’s exactly what the new CitroenC3 Aircross does – it stands out with an unmistaken identity. For some car buyers the Citroenability to take design risks is the absolute appeal of the brand. For others the Citroendesigners just allow car buyers to make individual statements in so many ways. The new CitroenC3 Aircross remains true to the Citroenbrand in its identity and fun looking appeal. The test car came with a good blend of colour features including the Venetian blinds style rear quar-
ter window colours. And underneath that modern design style is a car that’s packed with safety and comfort technology. While the basic CitroenC3 could be garish adding the Aircross features
and style pack has given a new aspect to the car. This car stands high on the road, to emulate a 4x4 in stature, while being more car-like with hints of MPV styling. So you get the benefits of a high driving position and
Citroen C3 Aircross 1.2T PureTech 110 Engine Engine Power 0 – 100km/hr Economy Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Euro NCAP Rating Warranty Entry Price
1.2 litre 110hp 11.3 seconds 20km/litr
(5.0l/100km or 56mpg)
45 litres 115g/km A4 €200 20,000km/12 months 5 star 2017 5 years unlimited €20,695
New engine choices for
LAND ROVER has announced a host of new features to the Range Rover Velar including a wider engine choice, the latest intelligent safety technology and more features such as air suspension and adaptive dynamics. The luxury SUV was crowned World Car Design of the Year at the recent World Car Awards. The Velar now has a D275 engine option, a 275bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel, producing 625Nm of torque. The new D275 enhances the options across the range and enables customers the flexibility to specify the perfect car for them. For 2019 model year, customers have a greater breadth of choice when specifying their vehicle. This includes the Kvadrat premium textile seat available more wide-
ly across the range. Joining the suite of driver assistance systems, Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist operates between 0-180km/h and uses the existing Adaptive Cruise Control functionality with Lane Centring to steer the vehicle within its lane as it maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front. Other features include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go that allows the driver to follow a vehicle to a smooth stop and resume from stationary when the driver prompts the system by tapping the accelerator pedal. The radar-based High-Speed Emergency Braking enables enhanced forward collision detection. The system is able to detect an imminent collision, alerting the
17 May 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29
WHAT’S NEW IN TECHNOLOGY AND ON WHEELS
TECH & MOTORS
The new fully electric Kia Niro
Kia announces the new arrival of the all-electric Niro KIA unveiled a new all-electric version of Niro, which is due to receive its European debut at the Paris Motor Show in October 2018. Kia claims that the sporty and versatile Niro EV combines driving enjoyment with
The new Citroen C3 Aircross comes with impressively distinctive styling that adds to the comfort and technology appeal of the car. Entry prices start from €20,695 for the 1.2 petrol powered Touch versions rising to €26,195 for the diesel powered Flair versions.
good seat posture along with some off-road ability that comes from the CitroenGrip control system. The seat position and ease of getting comfortable in the car appealed to me instantly. Seat adjustment was simple and getting set up with mobile phone connection and setting the economy data was quick and easy. That too gave an instant feeling of being comfortable with the car. I took the new CitroenC3 Aircross out on the road and enjoyed the experience behind the 1.2 litre turbo-petrol model, with its higher flair specification. That’s the top level
specification and the test car was packed with virtually all you could ask for in a cross-over type car, including a heads-up display system for your driving speed. The engine performance from the compact three-cylinder petrol unit was lively and well matched to the five-speed gearbox, even if at times I felt that it would have been able for a sixth gear. Out on the road, it pushes you forward without an effort and you’re soon at the 120km/hr limit when motorway cruising. Engine smoothness at this speed and pace was very acceptable, but fuel
consumption was a little higher than I would have expected. The economy sweet spot will be closer to 100km/hr, even if this lively engine just wants to do more. So I found that over my 1,000km weekly drive, this car had a range of about 675km on a full 45 litre fuel tank. The CitroenC3 Aircross is also available with a 1.6 litre turbo-diesel engine and while the public debate about the cleanliness of diesel engines rages on, the reality is that the diesel version is a good 20% fuel efficient. For longer haul drivers, those like me who regularly cover close to 1,000km per
week in commutes or for weekend fun, then the diesel power has to be a serious consideration. While colour styling might the feature that makes the CitroenC3 Aircross stand out, the technology options are at the core of the new C3 Aircross with 12 different technologies available. These include voice controlled 3D navigation, keyless entry and start, 60/40 sliding rear bench, lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The new CitroenC3 Aircross has good rear legroom, even if elbow room could be tight for three. The boot space is modular
in design and can be up to 520 litres in volume. The car has scored maximum 5 Euro NCAP rating for car safety (for models fitted with either Safety Pack 1 or Safety Pack 2 (Standard on Flair models). A lane departure warning system is standard and easily disengaged for smaller rural roads. Entry prices are very competitive at €20,695 and adding extra specification is not as financially painful as with some other brands. You can get a range-topping model with almost all you can ask for in technology and a six-speed automatic gearbox for a little over €26,000.
the award-winning Range Rover Velar
driver and applying the brakes if the driver fails to respond. Standard features now also include a rear camera, front and rear parking aids, driver condition monitor, emergency braking and lane keep assist. Velar is offered with coil springs as standard with four-corner air suspension now an option on all models with V6 engines, the four-cylinder 240bhp diesel and 300bhp petrol. This system delivers truly outstanding comfort and significantly increased offroad capability. The Velar comes with a larger 82-litre fuel (up from 63-litres) tank fitted to a number of petrol models, delivering greater range. The models benefiting from the increase in tank capacity are the P250 and P300 2.0-litre petrol Ingenium engine options.
The Range Rover Velar will now be offered with new engine options, improved comfort and extra technology features
eye-catching design and functional utility. Designed at Kia’s design centres in California, USA and Namyang, Korea, the Niro EV claims to incorporate the practicality and appeal of a compact SUV. This new Niro EV features an exclusive radiator grille, futuristic air intake and arrowhead-shaped LED daytime running lights. The Niro EV is powered by Kia’s next-generation electric vehicle powertrain, using new production technologies developed specifically for Kia EVs. The car is equipped with a highcapacity 64 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack to enable it to drive over 450 km on a single charge with zero emissions, or more than 300 km on an optional 39.2 kWh battery system. The Niro EV will go on sale in Korea during the second half of 2018 and introduced to other markets in due course.
New Sprinter van prices are announced THE Mercedes-Benz
within the budget of the
commercial vehicles
majority of van buyers”.
team is at work prepar-
The new Sprinter
ing for the arrival here
will offer new levels of
of their new Sprinter
intelligent connectivity,
van series which will be
superior comfort and
launched on the market
for the first time in the
early next month.
vehicles history a front
Ahead of its arrival, the company has
wheel drive variant. Meanwhile, as part of
announced that entry
the pre-launch prepa-
prices will begin from
rations, dealers recently
€21,950 excluding
returned from a global
taxes and charges – a
training event in Portu-
figure their commercial
gal where they had the
vehicles sales manager,
opportunity to put the
Fergus Conheady says:
new Sprinter through its
“is one that puts the new
paces in preparation for
Sprinter comfortably
its arrival in Ireland.
30 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
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32 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
ARTS THEATRE | SATIRE ON MARRIAGE FOR MONETARY GAIN
Forget your woes with a re-imagined 18th century play WE live in ‘farc ical’ times, with every day bringing something to laugh about or be concerned about. We all need a distraction – so what better way to distract from the farce the world is today, with a re-imagined 18th century farcical play, ‘rebooted’ for 2018? Love A La Mode – revamped by performance company Felicity - will take to the stage at Smock Alley theatre from June 4 to 16 after its initial programming in February 2017. Director of the reboot, Colm Summers, said it was a ‘kooky commission’, back when it originally debuted last year. “ We n e v e r i m a g ined audiences would respond so well to it, or that we would have such a fulfilling and -maybe
RACHEL D’ARCY
rdarcy@dublingazette.com
this is cheesy - such a laugh making it. “Then Smock Alleys head of programming, the inimitable Cliona Dukes, saw the show, loved it, and invited us to do a reboot this summer. It was a no-brainer,” Summers told Dublin Gazette. Love a la Mode was originally debuted in 1759, written by Charles Macklin, one of the biggest names in acting in his time – a ‘rockstar’, as Summers called him. Described as a satire on marriage for monetary gain, it pokes fun at the notion of ‘love’,
enraging critics when debuted for reversing the role of the ‘stage Irishman’, who was made a ‘buffoon’ of until Macklin came along. The modernised adaption pays homage to this, with their stage Irishman described by Summers as ‘an everyman for 2018’. The modern adaption, in the words of Summers, is ‘more like Monty P y t h o n ’s F l y i n g C i r c u s drunkenly i m p rov i s e the 18th Century’. Production began on the play last week, with rehearsals going swimmingly ahead of it’s revisit to the stage in a few short weeks. “We’ve actually just
Felicity, a band of players bent on bamboozling your present
“
go t i n to re h e a rs a l s, and it’s great. The first week is always fabulous because everyone is delighted to have a job and you, hopefully, haven’t hit an enormous blocker yet. “The highlight so far has been getting the play on its feet. “There is a truism about Restoration comedy, and particularly
Love a la Mode was originally debuted in 1759
“Music-wise, composer and musician Seamus Ryan will be revamping a score he wrote for the 2017 production. “I don’t want to misrepresent him here, but I think he’d be comfortable with me saying that musically the show owes more to big pop bangers than Bach or Handel,” Summers detailed.
We never imagined audiences would respond so well to it Georgian theatre, that it’s a nightmare to read but a pleasure to play about with. It’s true. This week we’ve just been turning the play upside down, and shaking it until good bits fall out.
As for what Summers expects the audience to take away from the play, the director says that the coming together of people to have ‘a laugh’ is ‘radical’ in 2018, in a time that he calls ‘hyperfarcical’. “Times are absurd. Times are hyper-farcical. We are so alienated, so alone in so many ways. Jokes are harder to write, but writing them isn’t the point.
“The reality is that going into a darkened room with a shower of strangers to have a laugh together is a radical thing to do. That’s the point.” Tickets for Love a la Mode are available now from SmockAlley.com, with matinee and evening performances, so you’ve no excuse to miss what’s sure to be one of the summer theatre highlights.
Whelan’s show promises to pack a punch WITH dreamy tunes and a soft ambiance, it’s only fitting that Australian artist Tim Bettinson has taken on the moniker of Vancouver Sleep Clinic. Vancouver Sleep Clinic have racked up a solid fanbase online, with an eclectic yet ambient mix of R&B, indie-pop and soundscape tunes. Having first hit the scene when he was just 17 years old, he’s now embarking on a world tour, including a stop off at Whelan’s on June 13. Celebrating the release of his latest EP, Therapy Phase 01 – his first since being released from his record contract – the Whelan’s show promises to pack a punch for all in attendance. The audience on the night will experience the illustrative sounds of Brisbane-born Tim, and a raw musical talent that shouldn’t be missed. Tickets for the Whelan’s show are available now, priced at €17.35. An over 18’s show, ID will be required at the door on the night.
Vancouver Sleep Clinic have racked up a solid fanbase online
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 33
BRADLEY HAILS HOOPS’ ROUSING RESPONSE P35
THE BEST IN DUBLIN
SPORT
FOUR-STAR:
FOOTBALL: TEMPLEOGUE Synge Street continued their strong start to the AFL2 season with a big 4-9 to 0-11 win over St Mary’s, Saggart to make it five points out of six from their three games to date. With five goals already accumulated in their opening two fixtures against St Maur’s and St Pat’s Palmertown, TSS once again had the midas touch in attack.
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PETANQUE | FRENCH SPORT GROWING ACROSS IRELAND
Bushy Park embraces Celtic battle sport@dublingazette.com
THERE was an invasion of Scottish and Welsh over the May bank holiday as they took on the Irish in petanque’s annual Celtic Challenge competition. This competition celebrates its 30th year in existence and the 10th time being hosted in Ireland. This year’s venue was the local boules (pétanque) club in Bushy Park, Terenure, taking in the traditional French sport - a variant on bowls played with heavy metal balls - that is making a push to be included in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The beautiful weather was an added bonus to the two days of competition, and 96 games, that saw 16 teams compete to be crowned Celtic Champions 2018. The Irish team was a true representation of the island of Ireland
with players coming from Bangor, Belfast, Meath, Kilkenny, Waterford, Cork and Dublin. The Dublin Lord Mayer (Michael Mac Donnacha) opened the event on Saturday morning. Two full days of boules in the glorious sunshine and the “clack” of colliding boules attracted a lot of attention from those enjoying the park over the weekend. The winners were finally revealed on Sunday evening at a Gala dinner in the Plaza Hotel, Tallaght. The Scottish team once again clinched the title and will bring the trophy back to Scotland with Ireland gaining second place over Wales by a two win margin. Pétanque is a growing sport in Ireland and there are now over 140 players across five different clubs represented by the Irish Petanque Association, some of whom have
Members of the Welsh contingent at the Celtic Challenge enjoy the sunshine as the Petanque action takes place in the background
represented Ireland in European and World events. The French game of pétanque, also known as boules, can be played by all regardless of age or ability The sport has been formally organised in Ireland since 1990 with the introduction of the Irish Petanque Association, affiliating
with the European and international federations. Terenure is very much the base for the sport in Dublin with the Park Petanque club - running since 1994 the central venue. For more information see: www. irishpetanque.org or www.parkpetanqueclub.com
SPORT CONTACT INFO SPORTS EDITOR: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com
For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@dublingazette.com Phone: 01 601 0240
34 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
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BALLYMUN KICKHAMS OUR U-11s hosted a blitz last Saturday and the intense efforts to see it pass off successfully means that everyone associated with the 11s, parents, guardians, mentors and all the players, win this week’s coveted award, take a bow you are our LAOCH NA SEACHTAINE. The sun shone on Pc Ciceam in more ways than one! The lads efforts on the pitch were only beaten by the fantastic bakers and their secret recipes off the pitch! A huge thanks to Castleknock and Judes for taking part and to everyone who supported. On a demanding day, some of the key players were Jack Duggan, James Sarsfield, Calum McMahon and Ben Cosgrove. The team are also looking forward to welcoming back a fit again Josh Flatley, who has had a difficult week. So well done all involved, yet again, great credit to the club. Our fantastic new look website launched last week and so far feedback has been excellent. Click on www.ballymunkickhams.com and let us know what you think! If not, go to our Facebook page or Twitter @BallymunGAA to find out all the latest news or gossip, or to ask us a question! Our two nurseries are amalgamating into one big fun day this coming Saturday in Poppintree park. So instead of our two separate nurseries, we will have one big fun, outdoor event in Poppintree for one day only. It will run from 10am to 11am on the Gaelic pitches and the weather promises to help make this a memorable morning. Please spread the word! Lastly, don’t forget our golf classic on May 25, all the details of which are on our aforementioned internet pages!
CLONTARF LAST Thursday, we marked 10 years since our new pitches were opened on P34/35. The first game back in 2008 was a 2-5 to 1-8 draw against Templeogue Synge Street in AFL2. The first cluiche of the next decade on the pitches was a football match for our U-16 buachaill against neighbours Raheny on Saturday, which resulted in a 5-17 to 0-17 win for Cluain Tarbh. Sunday was a historic day for hurling in the club, as we supplied both number 2s to the Dubs who took on Kilkenny in Páirc Parnell. Kevin Byrne made his minor championship debut, while Paddy Smyth made his senior championship debut in a thrilling match - which saw Ath Cliath narrowly miss out. Next up is away trip to Loch Garman next Sunday. Earlier in the morning,
our Roinn Two minor hurlers had a very strong second half against the amalgamated teamThomas Clarke Gaels, overturning a four-point half time deficit to win 1-18 to 1-12. Junior A ladies had a 3-8 to 1-10 midweek win away to BBSE in Roinn Four. The U-15 cailini kept reiteoir busy in his notebook, scoring 12-16 away to Naomh Jude. Minor A cailini enjoyed a 5-11 to 1-13 victory at home to BBSE in Roinn One last Monday night. Well done to our camógs, who took partin half-time games on Sunday during Ath CliathOffaly Leinster Camogie semi-final in Parnell’s. Junior As had a narrow one-pointwin away to TSS on Tuesday, 1-11 to 0-13, while our Junior Bs completed double against the same opposition on Thursday.
ATHLETICS: DUBLIN RACE SET FOR HIGHEST FEMALE ENTRY YET
Marathon mindset a late bloomer for Lee Speaking at the launch of the Dublin marathon, Rio Olympian Lizzie Lee says experience is key to success and explains why the majority of long distance runners hit their peak well into their thirties DAVE DONNELLY
sport@dublingazette.com
RIO Olympian Lizzie Lee insists age is no impediment as she continues to post her fastest marathon times in her late thirties. Lee, who turns 38 next week, returned to the marathon circuit in February following the birth of her second child and has since put up her two best-ever halfmarathon times. Speaking at the launch of the 39th SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon, she emphasised that the marathon – in contrast to many sports – is far from a young person’s sport. Responding to an article written by Sonia O’Sullivan in which she questioned the lack of younger contenders for distance running’s biggest prizes, Lee extolled the virtues of experience.
“Look at the average age of top 10 women in majors for the last year, it’s going to be 33 or 34,” Lee said. “Marathon is not a young women’s game. That’s because it is so mental as well as physical. You will never learn more about yourself than you will in the last three miles of a marathon. “You go to places that your brain will otherwise never bring you and there’s no reason why you can’t get quicker with age.” This year’s Dublin marathon vows to increase women’s participation to 40% from last year’s record high of 35%. When the first Dublin marathon was run in 1980, just 3% of participants were women, and the increase is an indication of the growing equality in Irish sport. The 2018 will specifically cele-
brate women’s participation with a theme of Votáil 100 – commemorating the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in Ireland.
“
Motherhood gives you a new perspective on life and it’s given me a calmness around my running.
”
Finishers’ medals will be emblazoned with the image of Constance Markiewicz in honour of her role in bringing about
Lizzie Lee at the launch of the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon this week. Picture: Sam Barnes
equal rights. Lee herself only took up running comparatively late, as a 26-year-old, which may go some way towards explaining her longevity. She’s one of five women representing Ireland in the marathon in Berlin and three of them – Breege Connolly, Gladys Ganiel and Claire McCarthy – are all past 40. Only Laura Graham is younger than Lee, at 32, and between the five women they have 11 children. In Lee’s case, she feels training while pregnant has helped her develop both phsyically and, as is so important in long-distance running, mentally. “Training through pregnancy means you have increased cardiac output. “You have a lot of extra blood in your system so your heart is working harder. “They say it is the equivalent of training at altitude. “I’m normally eight stone and I was 10 stone when heavily pregnant so I was carrying an extra 25% which increased my training load and made my legs stronger. “While it might be important to me on a particular day to win or beat someone. If my child is sick, that’s the only thing that matters now. “Motherhood gives you a new perspective on life and it’s given me a calmness around my running.” The Dublin Marathon’s focus on gender balance is timely given Lee’s own experience promoting sport to young girls around the country, and the difficulty keeping them interested. “I visit schools a lot, and there is a problem keeping young girls involved in sport. “Image is a part of it, and in some case they’re just not bothered, and don’t realise the benefits. So the more encouragement we can give them then the better.”
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 35
LEAGUE OF IRELAND: BURKE SCORES HIS FIRST ROVERS HEADER
LOI SHORTS Waves washed out UCD Waves fell to their second home defeat of the season as they were edged out 1-0 by champions Wexford Youths on Sunday afternoon. Rianna Jarrett scored the only goal of the game midway through the second half just as it appeared Waves were getting on an even footing having endured a frustrating opening. Waves had to wait until the 55th minute for their first chance of note after Wexford dominated the opening half. Chelsee Snell had a fine game in defence for Waves while Erica Turner in goal made a string of saves to deny Jarrett and Orlaith Conlon. Dearbhaile Beirne looked UCD’s biggest threat throughout and she drove the team on in search of an equaliser. Leanne Payne was inches from connecting with her cross, while Beirne showed good strength to hold off former Wexford GAA star Katrina Parrock and shoot just over the bar. Naima Chemaou shot over with an audacious free kick from 35 yards in injury time but Youths held on for a deserved three points.
PEAS CLOSE GAP TO SHELS
Waterford’s Stanley Abroah and Shamrock Rovers’ Greg Bolger. Picture:George Kelly
Bradley hails Hoops’ rousing response LOI PREMIER DIVISION Shamrock Rovers Waterford FC DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com
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S H A M RO C K R o v e r s dropped to sixth in the Premier Division following a disappointing 1-1 draw at home to highflying Waterford at Tallaght Stadium on Friday night. A wonderstrike from Gavan Holohan put the leaders in front just before the break before a stirring second-half performance saw Graham Burke equalise. The Hoops pushed on in the latter stages as they looked to complete the turnaround but the Blues held firm to take a hard-earned point back to Waterford. Rovers never truly got going in the first half against a well-drilled
and dynamic Waterford side, whose front pair Izzy Akinade and Courtney Duffus dominated aerially. Bastien Héry shot over early on for the Blues, before Akinade missed a glorious chance in the six-yard box following a disastrous defensive header from Ally Gilchrist. Holohan forced a save f ro m Rove rs ke e p e r Tomer Chencinski, while a rare flowing attacking move for Rovers saw ex-Waterford full back Ethan Boyle inches from connecting with a diving header. A feature of the first half was a lack of urgency from the home side, and they paid the price as Holohan was allowed acres of space to hit a swerving shot that wrongfooted Chencinski.
Stephen Bradley brought on attacking players Dan Carr and Brandon Miele at half time and they had an immediate impact, both going close early in the half. A lovely pass from 18-year-old Aaron Bolger provided Miele a chance to volley wide before new Ireland senior call-up Burke finally broke the deadlock. It was good work from Carr out on the left to stand up a cross to the back post, where Burke was able to head home off the post – his first headed goal for the Hoops. “A draw is probably fair because they started well and had one or two chances early on,” Bradley told the Dublin Gazette. “With the chances we created in the second
half, you’re a little bit disappointed we don’t take one of them and get the three points. “It’s hard to explain because we were so much better in the second half than we have been here. “In the first half, we
were flat. We were slow in and out of possession and we made it easy for them. “Second-half, it was a tremendous response. T h ey s h o we d g re a t character to come out and give a response like that.”
PEAMOUNT United closed the gap to Shelbourne Ladies at the top of the Continental Tyres Women’s National League to just one point as they defeated Cork City 5-0 at Bishopstown on Sunday afternoon. Goals from Heather Payne, Eleanor Ryan Doyle and a brilliant hat-trick from Aine O’Gorman was enough to earn Peamount the victory and inflict defeat on Ronan Collins in his first game in charge of City. The visitors quickly gained control and they broke the deadlock after just four minutes through Heather Payne,
who finished well following a swift counter-attack. Peamount continued to pile players forward and they doubled their lead just a matter of moments later as Aine O’Gorman drilled an excellent strike into the bottom right corner from the edge of the penalty area. O’Gorman grabbed her second before half-time and they remained in complete control in the second half with strikes from Ryan Doyle rounding Amanda Budden to slot home. O’Gorman then completed her triple with 20 minutes remaining.
Bohs bag consecutive wins for the first time
Waterford’s Dylan Barrett and Shamrock Rovers’ Gary Shaw. Picture:George Kelly
FOR THE first time this season, Bohemians strung together back-to-back victories and it lifted them six points clear of the play-off spot. Goals from Dinny Corcoran, Keith Ward and Eoghan Stokes saw them overpower a tame Bray Wanderers side 3-1. Six minutes were on the clock when Ward’s peach of a cross was bravely met by Corcoran who poked it home. Ward had his moment light on 31 minutes when Shane Supple’s goal kick was flicked on and Ward was in behind the Bray defence and had the composure and vision to execute a wonderful lob. McCabe got one back from a penalty on half-time but Stokes made the game safe for Bohs in the 77th minute
36 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 17 May 2018
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CRAOBH CHIARAIN NO winner of the lotto jackpot of €1,500 on Monday, May 7. Six Match 3 winners each receive €100. Numbers were: 8,9,13 and 23. Next Monday’s Jackpot will be €2,000. Tickets are €2 each and draw takes place every Monday in the club lounge at 11pm. Good wins were recorded by our adult football and junior hurling teams last week. Adult footballers play Naomh Mearnog in Clonshaugh on Sunday at 11am. U-15 football Championship v St Mary’s takes place on Sunday in Parnell Park at 11am. Best wishes to all concerned. Music continues in the club lounge every Sunday. Please support.
ERIN’S ISLE WELL done to the U15 camogie team, who were crowned league champions on Sunday moming. A brilliant result for the girls along with their manage ment team. Eoin Carney started wing-back for the Dublin minor hurling team on Sunday and represented the club proudly. Unfortunately, Kilkenny ran out eventual winners on the day. Well done to Aaron Duff, who played wing-forward for Dublin U-15 hurlers v Kilkenny. Dublin were beaten by five points. Aaron did, however, chip in with three points. Well done to Sean Coffey, Curtis Mullins, Kian Burke, Timmy, Ryan Thornton and Adam
Langan, who represented Dublin U-15 football team on Saturday and beat Clare. The club would like to pass on its deepest condolences to the family of former dub chairman and club trustee Paddy Byrne, who has sadly passed away. The Byrne family are in our thoughts at this present time. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam. Our Golf Classic Day takes place on May 25. Anyone looking to participate, or seeking further information, please contact Ciaran McCarney on 0862600467. Memberships are now overdue and can be paid online or in person to Jude Casey. There was no winner of the Lotto last week. Next draw takes place on May 17t with a Jackpot of €4,000.
O’TOOLE’S GOOD win for our junior hurlers in a cracking end-to-end, nail-biting home game v Kilmacud Crokes last Thursday night in the league. In a game that could have gone eitherway, our lads came outwell on top. Our U-14 girls started off their extremely busy week with a great win away from home to St Finian’s in the league. They head off to represent themselves and their club in Féile 2018 on Saturday. We wish the girls all the best and so can you by coming along to support them. Thanks Kelly for organising a super day out to Tayto Park for our U-14 boys Féile team. Our Dinner Dance is only a few weeks away. Do you have your ticket? It’s Friday, June 8 in the Carnegie Hotel, Swords. Tickets €30 for a great night’s entertainment can be secured from Claran, 0876465273; David, 0879769594; and John, 0872958398. Entertainment this week, Friday night fun and games with DJ. Saturday The Mutts’ and Sunday, Owen Thomas. There was no winner of our weekly ‘Live’ club lotto draw. The numbers were 3, 5, 17 and 20. The jackpot this week is €2,300.
SOCCER: INCHICORE CLUB CONTINUES THEIR INCREDIBLE RISE
CIE bring LSL 1A football back to the Works Ranch LSL SUN SENIOR 1B CIE Ranch Mount Merrion DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com
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CIE Ranch made it four promotions on the bounce as they hammered Mount Merrion 6-2 in LSL Sunday Senior 1B at the Works in Inchicore. Ranch will now ply their trade in the third tier of intermediate football after achieving successive promotions in each of their four seasons since returning from the AUL. The Inchicore club are now neck and neck with Dublin University at the top of the table with identical point and goal difference – 51 and 28 respectively. Dublin University host already-relegated CYM on the final day, while CIE face a tricky trip to
in-form Leicester Celtic. Ranch need to equal their rivals’ scoreline in order to secure the league title as they lead in both goals scored and head-to-head. “We’ll be up against it trying to get more goals than them,” Keith Cronin, who manages the team with assistant Keith Conroy, told the Dublin Gazette. “On paper, they have an easier match. We’re playing Leicester, who are unbeaten in five, and they’re playing CYM who are relegated and taking goals in left, right and centre.” With Dublin University beating Confey 3-1 on Sunday, CIE did their bit to bring the goal difference back in their favour as they hammered six past a strong Mount Merrion side. Keith Eagers and Gary Sullivan both scored
twice outside of a goal from Lee O’Sullivan and an own goal. Sullivan’s first was the pick of the bunch, a 30-yard screamer that left the Mount Merrion keeper with no chance. They conceded twice in the second half, once from the penalty spot, but have done enough to get their noses slightly in front going into the final day’s action. It brings to a close a phenomenal season for
the club, who reached the last 16 of the FAI Intermediate Cup before going out to Avondale United on a replay. That was enough to earn them a spot in the draw for the qualifying round, and they won their tie against Intermediate Cup semi-finalists to book a spot in the main draw. And there’s only one team Cronin has his eye on when the draw is made over the summer
– as his brother Glenn is assistant manager at Shamrock Rovers. “To be in the open draw of the FAI Cup, and to get to the last 16 of the Intermediate Cup was a big bonus as well. “To be in the draw for the FAI Cup is amazing for the club and where it’s come from. “My brother is Glenn Cronin the Shamrock Rovers coach, so it would be nice to get him in the draw, wouldn’t it?”
Local duo in Transplant team
SANTRY’S Paul Prendergast and team captain Harry Ward, from Baldoyle have both been named in the Irish team of 24 athletes for the 10th European Transplant and Dialysis Sports Championships in June. The Irish Team has enjoyed great success at other European Championships over the past number of years. At the previous European Championships which were held in Vantaa, Dubliners Peter Heffernan, Paul Prendergast, Chikoyo, Colin White, Harry Ward and Aoife Finland, in 2016, the Irish team’s final medal tally was a staggering 21 Gold, 19 Silver and 29 Murray and Ron Grainger with Peter Canavan. Picture: Conor McCabe Bronze.
This placed Ireland’s 28 strong team in fifth position on the medals table with host country Finland, and a much larger team of 96 athletes, taking top position out of 24 competing countries. The European Transplant & Dialysis Sports Championships are a celebration of life and showcase the value of sport and regular physical activity for people on dialysis and transplant recipients. The Games are open to all kidney, liver, heart, lung, pancreas, bone marrow transplant recipients as well as dialysis patients.
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 37
THROUGH THE LSL The CIE Ranch LSL Sunday Senior 1B side that won promotion for a third successive season.
BASKETBALL: DCU LEAD THE WAY IN 3X3 FESTIVAL
Saints star at inaugural Dundrum showdown 3X3 BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
DCU’s Martins Provizors holds off UCD’s Mike Garrow. Picture: Piaras O Midheach/Sportsfile
JAMES HENDICOTT
sport@dublingazette.com
SONIA’S 100TH
Irish superstar takes in Cabinteely parkrun FORMER World Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist, Sonia O’Sullivan completed her 100th parkrun at Cabinteely parkrun last week where Vhi hosted a special event to celebrate the achievement. More than 400 parkrunners and volunteers enjoyed refreshments in the Vhi Relaxation Area where a physiotherapist took participants through a post-event stretching routine. parkrun in partnership with Vhi support local communities in organising free, weekly, timed 5k runs every Saturday at 9.30am.
THE INAUGURAL Hula Hoops 3x3 Basketball Championship achieved its pre-tournament aim of engaging shoppers at the Dundrum Town Centre, presenting an enthralling, fastpaced, party-focused version of the game as some of Ireland’s best players took to the court in the open air at the shopping centre throughout Saturday. Eight men’s and eight women’s teams, drawn from Basketball Ireland’s top league sides, took part in a fiery, frantic version of the game. 3x3 basketball is based around a half-court, ten minute contests, and a scoring system where a normal basket is worth a point, and a traditional ‘three pointer’ worth two. DCU Saints overcame Moycullen in the men’s final, the last game of the day, by a score of 14-8, defeating reigning champions in the full version of the game, UCD Marian, along the way. Martins Provizors, Graham Brannelly, Davidson and Conor Gilligan represented the Saints, and went undefeated through their five games. They took a while to warm up, though, just beating the buzzer against Black Amber Templeogue in their opener as they scored in the very last second to take the win 18-17. They also overcame a strong Pyrobel Killester side. “This event has been great. It was a big help to have the crowd here and it pushed us on a bit more in the end,” Provizors said afterward his side claimed the trophy. The ladies’ tournament saw Glanmire end DCU Mercy’s winning day in the finale. Mercy were four for four heading into the final, having already seen off opponents Glanmire by 6-5 in one of the lowest scoring contests of the day early on. Glanmire qualified second from their four team group, winning their other two games
aside from the Mercy contest, and then beat Pyrobel Killester by a margin of 10-9 in a tight semifinal. They clearly learned from the experience. Glanmire – represented by Grainne Dwyer, Casey Grace, Aine McKenna and Claire Rockall – overcame the Dublin side at the second and more important time of asking by 10-9 to
take the title. An estimated 9,000 people saw the 30 games take place over the course of the day. Basketball Ireland hope the initiative – which is expected to become a postseason regular – might help add to their growing number of active players in Ireland and raise awareness around the sport.
UCD and Monkstown in Euro action
EURO CLUB HOCKEY
STEPHEN FINDLATER
sport@dublingazette.com
UCD and Hermes-Monkstown will both represent Irish interests on the European club hockey stage this weekend, bidding for good enough results to maintain the country’s place in the top two tiers of competition. For UCD, they face D u tc h p owe r h o u s e s Amsterdam who were
recently runners-up in the Hoofdklasse, widely regarded as the best women’s league in the world. That comes in Thursday’s quarter-final at Surbiton in London of the European Cup, the elite competition. The students have had a fine season, winning both the Irish Senior Cup and the EY Hockey League but bowed out of the Champions Trophy
at the semi-final stage last week at the hands of Loreto. As such, they will be Ireland’s second seeded side for European competition with the level they play at in 2019 determined by both their performances and HermesMonkstown. Town play from Friday to Monday on home turf at Rathdown in the EuroHockey Trophy, the second tier. It follows a
tough season in which they finished bottom of the EY league a year on from ending as runnersup. It follows a large departure of players to foreign shores, trimming them of international trio Nikki Evans, Anna O’Flanagan and Chloe Watkins. They play French, Russian and Spanish opposition in their opening round-robin group of four teams.
UCD’s Ellen Curran. Picture: Adrian Boehm
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NA FIANNA HUGE thanks to all who sent submissions to TII last week regarding MetroLink and the Mobhi Road proposals. We estimate that 2,000 submissions were sent in and TII told us that they received many thousands of submissions relating to Na Fianna. Senior football teams in league on Saturday at 6.15pm, Senior 1s in Mobhi Road against St Brigid’s and Senior 2s away against St Anne’s. Full day of adult fixtures on Sunday starting with camogie at 11am with Senior 3s playing Cuala in Mobhi Road, Senior 7s away to St Finians and Senior 8s against Balinteer on the back pitch. Junior A footballers play Round Towers in Collinstown at 11am, Bs play Portobello in Mobhi road at 10.30am and J10s away to St Brendans at 3pm. Minor A footballers play Whitehall, Bs play Craobh Chiarán, both away at 11am and Cs play Plunkett’s in Mobhi Road at 12. Full fixture list on website, good luck to all teams, support welcome. Céili and set-dancing this Friday night in club, music by Banna Ceol Sean Óg, táille €10, fáilte roimh chách. Please support our minor hurlers quiz night on Thursday, May 24 in the club from 7.30pm. Joint Golf Classic in Donabate Golf Club on May 25, 2018, details from Pat Breen on 087 9683222. Na Fianna’s 36th Mini Leagues on May 28 to June 17, details on website. Sincere sympathies of Na Fianna are offered to neighbours St Vincents and the Hawe family on the passing of Ciara, ar dheis Dé go raibh h-anam. Skerries’ Lyndsey Davey helped launch the girls football Feile which will take place in Dublin this weekend. Picture: Sportsfile
RAHENY OGRA is on every Saturday during the school year at 9.45am, and Wednesday evening Orga has moved now to pitch 12a 6-7pm. Our juveniles are doing the club proud while lining out for their county, Adam Codd and Tom Geary in the Celtric Challenge Group Dublin beating Offaly by one point. Hard luck to U-14 Kate Kelly who captained Dublin camogie v Wexford, Final result Dublin 1-6 to 4-6. Also hard luck to Ciara Stack who lined out with Dublin U-16A in the Leinster Final. Liam Dunne was with the Dublin minor footballers (and scored the third goal) when they played Louth, 3-15 to 1-7, and the same Liam Dunne togged out again for the Dublin hurlers v Kilkenny in Parnell Park on Sunday.
Our AFL2 beat neighbours O’Tooles by two points, Raheny 1-12 to 1-10 O’Tooles, AFL4 had a win over Oliver Plunketts, 1-14 to 1-8, and our Ladies Footballers played on pitch 19 and had a win over Ballinteer St John. Raheny 3-9 v 1-11 BSJ. Hard luck to our Senior two camogie, Raheny 6-7 to 8-8 Good Counsel. Hard luck to our Divison 2 minors who lost to St Vincents on Sunday morning. Our U-12 camogie team, captained by Aisling Savage played in Parnells at HT of the Dublin Camogie Senior Match. We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Hawe Family and St Vincents GAA club on the devastating loss of Ciara, At dheis De go raibh a anam.
SCOIL UI CHONAILL A SUPERB last minute goal secured a great win for our first ladies team against Naomh Barróg last Wednesday evening. The senior footballers also took home a well deserved win following their game against Whitehall Colmcilles on Wednesday evening. The U-14 girls are training hard for the Féile Football Competition set to take place next Saturday, May 19 in Balbriggan. Anyone interested in availing of very attractive pitch side advertisement should contact Aidan Mulvey on 085 7213789. Adult Hurling and Football teams train in Scoil Mondays and Thursdays from 6.30pm. Ladies training is in Scoil on Mondays at 7pm. Juvenile training takes place in Scoil at 9:30am on Saturday mornings. New members welcome, as always. For any news or enquiries please contact scoil.pro.eoc@gmail.com.
ASDFASD : TEMPLEOGUE IN MOOD FOR GOALS
Synger on song in early phases of AFL Division 2 sport@dublingazette.com
TEMPLEOGUE Synge Street continued their strong start to the AFL2 season with a big 4-9 to 0-11 win over St Mary’s, Saggart to make it five points out of six from the ir three games to date. With five goals already accumulated in their opening two fixtures against St Maur’s and St Pat’s Palmertown, TSS once again had the midas touch in attack. Courtesy of threepointers by Ger Vickery, Cathal Morley and Conor McKiernan, they brought a 3-1 to 0-2 buffer into the interval. Despite the best efforts of a gallant Saggart side, the home team remained in control on the resumption. In addition to Vickery’s final tally of 1-5, county panellist Killian O’Gara, younger brother of Eoghan, registered a brace of points. Kevin Hughes and Colm O Murchu were also on target, while a second Morley goal rounded off
Templeogue Synge Street sit second in the AFL2 table after three games.
a 10-point win for the southsiders. Scoil Chonaill and Round Tower Clondalkin opened the ir league accounts for 2018 with morale-boosting wins over Whitehall Colmcille (1-21 to 2-10) and Clontarf (3-8 to 1-13). There was also a maiden success for St Anne’s - who
PORT IN A STORM Dingley gets major boost on Road to Tokyo
OLYMPIC diver Oliver Dingley has received the support of the Dublin Port Company for his road to Tokyo 2020, it was announced this week. The NAC based Dingley will receive a fully expensed car and financial bursary to support the 25-year old as he bids to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics while continuing his studies at Dublin Institute of Technology. Picture: conor mccabe
had four points to spare at home to Naomh Mearnog, 2-8 to 0-10. Raheny bounced back from a round two defeat to Clontarf by overcoming the stern challenge of O’Toole’s at St Anne’s Park (1-12 to 1-10). In AFL1, Na Fianna and Ballymun Kickhams are still searching for
their maiden wins of the league season, after they played out an entertaining draw (1-17 to 2-14 respectively) at St Mobhi Road. It is a similar scenario for Ballinteer, who couldn’t be separated from St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh at Marley Park - 1-14 to 3-8.
17 May 2018 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 39
CAMOGIE: FAITHFUL COUNTY TURN THE TIDE IN SECOND HALF
FOOTBALL
Trant, Byrne and Owens named in LIDL team
Dublin goalkeeper Sile nic Coitir escapes danger against Offaly last Sunday. Picture: ilivephotos.com
Beagan brilliance undone by Offaly LEINSTER SEMI-FINAL Offaly Dublin sport@dublingazette.com
1-14 2-8
DUBLIN succumbed to a second half fightback from Offaly to miss out on a place in the Leinster semi-final, missing out by three points at Parnells last Sunday. Despite Dublin’s substantial work rate and being awarded a late penalty, Offaly dominated much of the second half with a fine display of skill and ranged points to secure a spot in the Leinster Final. The first half saw Dublin lead the way where their work rate and fitness, along with quality support play, startled Offaly from the first whistle. Within the first 10 minutes, Offaly hit 4 wides while Dublin took their chances and scored three points via Siobhan Kehoe and Orla Beagan who shared free taking duties. It was in the 10th minute when Dublin struck gold. St Jude’s Leah Butler made a dart through the centre, giving a hand pass out to Orla Began who’s childhood training of pulling on the ground came into play and smashed the ball into the back of Offaly’s net. Offaly’s heads dropped and important players like Michaela Morkan were kept
quiet throughout the first 30 minutes. This was down to Naomh Mearnog’s Miriam Twomey’s fearless attitude. Twomey, although petite in appearance, contained the heart of a lion and was the primary leader of the pack. At one stage, Dublin’s Doireann Mullanny made three magnificent blocks in a row to keep Offaly’s defenders in the corners. It was this motivation that the players needed to consistently drive forward. The half time whistle blew and Dublin entered the changing room with the scoreboard under their control at 1-5 to 0-5. While Dublin continued their hassling, Offaly managed to turn the tide in the second half. Crucially, in the 45th minute, Siobhan Flannery was rewarded a long range free which found its way into the back of Dublin’s net. Dublin responded with a series of scores from play from Beagan and Alex Griffin. As the minutes passed by, Offaly continued ticking over the score board and brought extra players into defence to smother Dublin’s attackers in order to defend their score line., drying up the scores. The volume of points saw them roll out a six-point lead with Debbie Flynn
and Flannery weighing in initially. Linda Sullivan, Grainne Egan and Grainne Dolan and another couple of scores from Flannery saw them outscore Dublin nine points to three during this phase. It took the game away from Dublin. The sky blues were awarded with a penalty in the 60th minute. Orla Beagan smashed it home, bringing her tally to 2-4, to reduce the deficit to three with the game entering extra time and a life-
Dublin’s Emma O’Byrne. Picture: ilivephotos.com
line. But no further scores came along in the three minutes of injury time as Dublin plugged away but could not force a leveller. It means the focus now switches to the All-Ireland championship series with Dublin facing Offaly once again on June 9 on home turf in the first of five round-robin games, taking in trips to Cork, Meath and Wexford before completing their group against Tipperary.
DUBLIN’S run to the 2018 Ladies National Football League has resulted in a trio of call-ups to the LIDL team to the league with goalkeeper Ciara Trant (St Brigid’s), Cuala’s Martha Byrne and St Sylvester’s Nicole Owens getting the nod. The players on each of the four divisional selections were nominated by opposition managers after each round of fixtures, and the players who received the most nominations have been included. The Division 1 team contains players from no fewer than six counties, with newlycrowned champions Dublin, runners-up Mayo, Westmeath, Donegal, Galway and Monaghan all represented. In total, there are three survivors from the 2017 selection, as Galway’s Sinéad Burke has been selected again, along with Donegal pair Karen Guthrie and Yvonne Bonner. Beaten Lidl NFL Division 1 finalists Mayo have four players on the divisional 15, with captain Sarah Tierney, Aileen Gilroy, and the Kelly sisters, Niamh and Grace, all included. Dublin are next on the list with three players, Owens perhaps providing the crucial moment of their campaign when she lobbed in a last minute goal in their semi-final win over Galway to earn their final berth in Parnell Park. Donegal also have three players on the selection.
GazetteSPORT MAY 17-23, 2018
ALL OF YOUR DUBLIN CITY SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 33-39
STING IN THE TAIL CAMOGIE: An Orla Beagan-inspired Dublin put it up to Offaly for long periods in their Leinster championship semifinal SEE P39
MOTHERHOOD AND MARATHONS ATHLETICS: Lizzie
Lee looks forward to the Dublin marathon and how experience plays a key role in the mental and physical battle. SEE P34
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Burke earns surprise call to O’Neill’s squad DAVE DONNELLY
sport@dublingazette.com
THERE were four new names in the provisional Republic of Ireland squad to face Celtic, France and the United States later this month – the most striking of which was Graham Burke. The Shamrock Rovers frontman had been namechecked by Martin O’Neill – along with Cork City’s Kieran Sadlier – as a player with the potential to play at senior international level. O’Neill and his assistant Roy Keane had watched Burke score a stunning third-minute goal as the Hoops beat the reigning champions 3-0 in Tallaght earlier this month. Few expected Burke to be included when O’Neill unveiled his squad in Navan last week, however, as former St Patrick’s Athletic goalkeeper Conor O’Malley also received his maiden call-up. B u r ke, f ro m S e a n McDermott Street in the
north inner city, has been in flying form for Rovers since making the move back to Dublin from Notts County last July. The former Aston Villa trainee celebrated the good news with another goal – his tenth of the season – as the Hoops fought back to earn a draw against highflying Waterford on Friday night. “It’s a great achievement and fully-deserved,” Burke’s manager at Shamrock Rovers, Stephen Bradley, told the Dublin Gazette. “I think he has been the best player in the league this year so far. He’s added goals to his game, and if you’re a player who can create and score, you’re a dangerous player – that’s what he is right now. “He’s maturing every week and he’ll only get better. This call-up is fantastic for him.” One potential complication for Burke is the fact the League of Ireland, unlike the bigger leagues abroad, doesn’t take a
Shamrock Rovers’ Graham Burke earned a place in the Republic of Ireland squad this week. Picture: George Kelly
break when international fixtures are scheduled. With several senior players likely to either be involved in play-off action in England or given some extra time to recover, Burke’s best chance to feature would be Sunday’s meeting with Celtic. The game in Glasgow, arranged as a testimonial for long-serving Celtic captain Scott Brown, could see
a number of debuts handed out. One of those could be Burke’s former Villa teammate Callum Robinson, who recently declared for Ireland through grandparentage and has been in good goalscoring form for Preston North End. However Rovers have a game scheduled on Saturday night, away to Sligo, which Burke would be
expected to start in as an ever-present in Bradley’s side. The FAI won’t allow a league fixture to be postponed unless at least two players are affected by international or under-21 call-ups, so there’s no scope to postpone the game. Bradley stressed that O’Neill has encouraged Burke to play a part in the Sligo game, while he
himself is eager to see the Dubliner join up with the international squad. “He’ll be fine. I had a good conversation with Martin and we’ll have another one during the week. It was excellent. “I obviously told Martin I want him to go and be around that Ireland set-up. Martin wants him to play for us so it was a very easy conversation.”